TrailBlazer Magazine - April 2013

APRIL 2013 n $2.00 www.trailblazermagazine.net

Southeastern North Carolina: From Swansboro to Chocowinity and Beyond in Nicholas Sparks Country

A True TrailBlazer: Global Noble | Argentina Art on Fire: Glass Blowing Ask RV Bill

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CIRCLE NO. 124 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

VOL. 35 n ISSUE 3

APRIL2013 CONTENTS Message from Marguerite

Tech Topics

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Club Calendar 10

Boating in Wilmington. Photo courtesy VisitNC.com

TrailMix 12 Activities & Events

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News & Notes 16

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SOUTHEASTERN NORTH CAROLINA

You may feel like you’ve walked on to a movie set while exploring the quaint towns of Southeastern North Carolina. They’re picturesque, pretty and popular with movie-makers and novelists alike.

I Knew I Was a TrailBlazer

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Spotlight: Horsin’ Around

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A True TrailBlazer: Global Noble

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Features: Southeastern North Carolina: From Swansboro to Chocowinity and Beyond in Nicholas Sparks Country Author Nicholas Sparks Loves His Home State of North Carolina

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Art on Fire 40 Member Deals 44 Advertiser Index 50 50

Ask RV Bill 52 Preserve Services Directory

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Winding Roads 62 Classified Advertising

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On Location 66

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AUTHOR NICHOLAS SPARKS

Cover Photo: Beaufort. Photo by Bill Russ - visitnc.com

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Photo courtesy Cindy Brochure and John Muuss

Crossword & Sudoku Puzzles

Chances are you’ve either read one of his books or seen one of the many movies based on his novels - see what Nicholas Sparks has to say about the North Carolina towns that inspired his stories.

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SPRING GULCH

FOLK FESTIVAL

May 16-19, 2013 27th Anniversary

2013 entertainment

Peter Yarrow Garnet Rogers Vishten The HillBenders

Bill Miller Trout Fishing in America plus many more

Choose from 3 Packages

3-NIGHTS, $149/COUPLE 7-NIGHTS, $185/COUPLE $25/COUPLE for a day ticket (Friday, Saturday or Sunday) (Limited availability. Must check-out no later than May 23, 2013. Cannot be combined with any other offer.

3-night package on standard and value site types. Offer not valid on rental units. Reservations required.

Use promo code TBFF13)

FOR RESERVATIONS CALL 1-866-864-8524 Event will be held at the Spring Gulch Resort 475 Lynch Road, New Holland, Pennsylvania 4

APRIL 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

www.SpringGulch.com

MESSAGE FROM MARGUERITE

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pring is here! The highlighted picture, of Washington’s Skagit Valley, reminds me that everything is blooming!

I like to use the start of any new season as a marker to take a look back and take stock. Whatever measurement you choose to define the time – be it the end of a month or the end of a season, it’s an opportunity to see what’s been accomplished to date and what’s needed for the next round. Spring is also a time of renewal – things bloom, hibernation, for both people and animals, comes to an end. So, we clean house, retool and prepare for what comes next.

To that end, I’d like to suggest that you let us know your thoughts on how we’re doing. We hear from you on Facebook and we hear from you through our Customer Service outlets, but we don’t really hear from you about TrailBlazer. What do you like about the magazine? Have you planned travels based on our feature stories? Was RV Bill helpful in troubleshooting an issue you might have had? Are you following Global Noble’s epic trek? Is there a recipe we’ve featured in our cooking column that has now become a campfire staple?

What else can we do in TrailBlazer that might enhance your outdoor lifestyle experience? So, please send

us your thoughts so we can take stock of how we’re doing in providing you relevant content that meets your travel reading needs. Send your letters* direct to us at TrailBlazer Magazine, Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800, Chicago, Illinois 60606 or send an email to TBeditor@equitylifestyle.com.

We’ve been trying to mix it up a bit in our camp kitchen and this month we’re introducing recipes for cooking with traditional smokers. And, if you’re an avid reader or movie-goer, you’ll enjoy our travel feature about the North Carolina Coast, an area made popular by the novels, as well as the movies based on the novels, by writer Nicholas Sparks. We’ve even provided a glimpse into Mr. Sparks’ thoughts on writing about all things North Carolina.

The spring season is the pregame of sorts to the biggest season of the outdoor lifestyle – summer. Our seasonal resorts are beginning to bloom. Spring cleaning, a perfect tie-in to Earth Day, is in earnest as they prepare the grounds and facilities for you. Winter projects are completed and the doors are open – we’re waiting for you.

See you soon,

Marguerite Nader President & CEO *Letters must include your first and last name and a phone number for verification. We may edit them for clarity, accuracy and style.

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Orlando, FL: Enjoying an early morning walk to Lake Hancock. So peaceful!

Mission Statement TrailBlazer provides exclusive news and information for the members and guests of Equity LifeStyle Properties Family of Resorts.

Each issue enhances the recreational lifestyle of its readers through a lively mix of camping and travel features, resort profiles and product features.

- John and Debi Sparks Calabash, NC

www.trailblazermagazine.net

EDITOR Joan DeAno Rykal TBeditor@equitylifestyle.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER Heather Anderson ADVERTISING SALES 877-252-9320 TBads@equitylifestyle.com TRAILBLAZER (ISSN 0747-2293) is published monthly except bimonthly Nov./Dec. and Jan./ Feb. by MHCTT Memberships, LP, c/o Equity LifeStyle Properties, Inc., Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60606. An annual subscription is $20. Periodicals postage paid at Chicago, IL and additional offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to TRAILBLAZER, 2325 Highway 90, Gautier, MS 39553. Canada Post Publication Mail Agreement 41461526.

TrailBlazer Magazine

Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800 Chicago, IL 60606 www.trailblazermagazine.net New Subscriptions 1-877-252-9320

TTN & LTR Reservation Services (From United States and Canada) 1-800-288-7245 • 228-497-3594 April 1 to August 31 Mon. - Fri. 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

September 1 to March 31 Mon. - Fri. 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Central Time 24-hr. STAR Line: 1-800-859-7827 228-497-3594 Member Services 1-800-388-7788 Resort Parks International Reservations 1-800-456-7774 ELS Reservations 1-877-362-6736 PRINTED IN THE USA

Now Win $50 EACH Issue!

Pics from the Parks Photo Submissions Do you have a winning photo from your visits to our preserves and resorts? We’d love for you to share it with us and what’s more, your submission will now be entered into our photo contest. Winners will receive a $50 American Express Gift Card. Each issue we will select ONE “winning” photo from the submissions received (all submissions must be received by midnight on the last day of the month.) Winning photo will be posted on the TrailBlazer website as well as in the magazine.

Photo submissions should include a brief description, including location of your photo, your name, city and state and sent to: TrailBlazer_photos@equitylifestyle.com or mail to: Equity LifeStyle Properties, Attn: TrailBlazer Photos Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800 Chicago, IL 60606 Emailed photos should be high resolution. Photos are not returnable and become the property of Equity LifeStyle Properties and may be used for publication on company websites and promotional purposes.

One winner will be selected EACH month from submissions received.

The winner will be announced in a future TrailBlazer issue and on the website.

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PICS FROM THE PARKS

â–ź Texas: South Padre Island Wilderness Lakes: Photo by Donald Crowell, Wenatchee, WA

annual Kite Fest.

- Shar and Terry Burdick, Altoona, PA

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WANT TO BE A

LUCKY WINNER?

Thousand Trails is offering members the opportunity to win a

$1,000 American Express Gift Card It’s easy ... pay your 2013 dues on time and camp at your favorite TT Preserve to earn entries into our monthly drawing.

There is no limit to how many entries you can earn so Get Out and Camp!

Get Out and8

Ca mp

When you pay your annual dues for 2013 in full, you will be entered into our monthly drawing for a $1,000 American Express gift card. Th each month from January through December 2013. In addition, once you pay your dues in full, each time camp at a Thousand Trails Preserve in 2013, you will receive an additional entry into the drawing. The drawings are limited to persons who of legal age. The drawings will be held at our corporate office on the 10th day after the end of each month. Winners will be notified by m

will be2013 one|drawing/one APRIL TRAILBLAZERwinner

Tech Topics

by Paul and Kerri Elders

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This month, we’ll examine the “tailswing phenomenon,” take a look at some simple tips for keeping the RV’s interior fresh and clean, and get some down and dirty oil filter tips.

Motorhome Tailswing

If you’re an RVer with a motorhome, then you’ve already learned one very important lesson: driving a motorhome is a different experience than just driving a REALLY BIG CAR. Proportion, height, weight distribution, and unique handling characteristics make a motorhome its own special driving experience. Motorhomes are not difficult to drive; they simply handle differently than a passenger car or truck. And they call for a little heightened awareness behind the wheel.

Depending on the motorhome’s chassis design, some of us need to keep an eye out for a physical phenomenon called “tailswing.” If your motorhome has a long rear overhang---meaning that the rear bumper of the coach is a good distance back from the back wheels---then you need to be aware of the residual tailswing effects of that rear overhang. It’s simple physics: turn the motorhome sharply in one direction and the motorhome’s “tail” will swing out in the opposite direction. The longer the distance is between the rear axle and the rear bumper, the more dramatic this movement will be.

Obstacles in the path of the tail’s swing (like stop signs or compact cars) can meet with a swipe. Become aware of your motorhome’s amount of tailswing and then make it a habit to make accommodations for this movement.

Watch your mirrors carefully when making turns in tight conditions (like narrow streets).

Preventing Interior Odors

Taking care of your RV’s interior is an important part of keeping your RV in tip-top shape. When cooking, always use your range’s vent-a-hood to quickly evacuate cooking odors and smoke before these odors have a chance to permeate curtains, upholstery, and stored clothing.

You’ll find that your range fan operates more efficiently if a window is slightly opened to “feed” a fresh air stream into the RV.

It’s also important to minimize dampness inside any RV. Remember a simple principle: air movement helps moisture removal. Use your RV’s overhead ventilation fans to help remove any condensation caused by showering, cooking, or laundry chores. When natural air circulation from open windows and doors isn’t enough, use your roof vents, range fan, or even the air conditioner to keep air moving throughout the RV to help keep dampness at bay.

If you’re parked in an area with high humidity, here’s a simple tip: open your closet doors. Closet space with little or no air circulation can lead to mold and mildew (one argument for cedar-lined closets). If you’re traveling in a muggy, humid climate, periodically opening your closet doors can help improve airflow in that confined space.

Occasionally, when your RV’s been parked in temporary storage, water can completely evaporate from the RV plumbing’s drain traps (p-traps under the sinks). This can leave the RV’s interior with a distinctively strong odor from gases that “back up” from the RV’s black water and gray water tanks. Fortunately, this little problem is easily solved. Just pour a few cups of plain water down each drain. Don’t forget to treat the shower drain and doublecheck to be sure there’s a little water in the toilet bowl.

By refilling the plumbing system’s drain traps, you’ve effectively sealed the drain lines from odors and gases backing up from the septic system. A little airing out and you’re ready to roll!

Changing Oil Filters

Oil filters are a critical part of any engine’s system and should be changed every three to five thousand miles or at every oil change. Use a high-quality, brand-name filter and always inspect your oil filter for leaks after having your oil changed at any service center. In rare cases, a service technician may fail to sufficiently tighten the oil filter after an oil change (yes, it happened to us), which can result in an oil leak.

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CLUB CALENDAR APRIL 2013 TT SINGLES Central California April 26-28: Lake of the Springs, CA May 24-27: San Benito, CA Contact Jane Davis at (209) 467-3278 or email to janedjd@ pacbell.net; Becky Staffeld at (408) 253-6995 or email to bstaffeld@att.net.

Northwest April 26-28: La Conner, WA May 24-26: Cultus Lake, British Columbia, Canada Contact: Director Dewey Erlwein at (360) 880-7443 or email to derlwein@peoplepc.com; Winnie Hoyteniuk at (604) 858-9757 or email to winnie@smartt.com (British Columbia); Daphne Bailey at (503) 590-8566 or email to daphnebailey07@comcast.net (Oregon); or Linda Christofferson at (360) 653-3648 (Washington).

Southwest Contact Babe Bohner at (909) 797-6437 FUN NITES Fun Nites are social gatherings organized by and for TTN members.

Eugene/Springfield Area Round-a-Bouters group For more information call Merry Klum (541) 726-7586 or Leona Todd (541) 844-4277 Pacific City Pacific City Ramblers Ramblers meet the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 5 p.m. at Home Town Buffet in the Tigard Market Place, 13500 SW Pacific Highway, Tigard, Oregon. Contact Charlie Buren at (503) 705-1587, Chickie Dientsel at (503) 286-8566 or Suzy Mulbey at (503) 678-2993. All Portland-area TT, NACO and LTR members welcome.

TTN So Cal Weekenders April 5-7: Pio Pico, CA May 3-5: Oakzanita, CA We are a group of TTN members who meet once a month at Southern California preserves. All ages welcome; we have both working and retired members. No dues, just fellowship. email: ttnweekenders@earthlink.net website: http://home.earthlink.net/~ttnweekenders/

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PRESERVE HIGHLIGHTS

TT Travelers April 1-3: Palm Springs, CA We are retired residents of Southern California who are TTN members. We meet monthly at a Southern California preserve for fellowship, games and potlucks. Please call Darlene Steddum at (805) 714-9038 or email to darjerste@ juno.com or Sharon Straite at (562) 899-8298 or email to lesstraite@verizon.net if you are interested in information about our group.

TTWest/FMCA May 17-19: Lake of the Springs, CA Members of Thousand Trails and FMCA meet at Northern California Preserves bimonthly, except for the “no-host gettogether” at Palm Springs Preserve immediately following the FMCA Western Area Rally in Indio, California. Contact Bob Litfin at (408) 226-6529 or email to clitfin@USA.com.

Reservations are required two weeks in advance.

TT of Texas/FMCA May 3-5: Lake Texoma, TX New members must be a member of TTN and FMCA. Contact Connie Farrar at (817) 454-4612 or email to ttnfmcachapter@gmail.com.

Our website is: ttnoftexasfmca.com. We also have a blog site: www.ttfmcaralliesandmore.blogspot.com Bounders United (“BUTTN”) Campouts Wagonmaster will be Tom & Pat Kennedy. “Bounders United/ TTN” are TTN members who own Bounder motorhomes and belong to Bounders United. For more information, contact Thomas Kennedy at (360) 794-4903 or email at BUTTNs231@gmail.com.

TT East Trail Buddies April 12-14: Chesapeake Bay, VA May 24-27: Forest Lake, NC We are an FMCA chapter exclusively for TT Members. We have three rallies each year at TT preserves on the East Coast.

For more information, please contact Club Secretary Peter Kamenik at (410) 287-8440 or email to trailbuddiestteast@ gmail.com

What’s App?

Join the TrailBlazer Network Earn exclusive badges, share photos and postcards, check in to your favorite properties on the TrailBlazer Network and challenge your camping friends to a game of bingo or bags!

To download the TrailBlazer Network app visit the app store from your iPhone or iPad or Google Play from your Android device. Want to hit the trail from your computer? Check out our website at www.Trailblazernetwork.com

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TRAILMIX

North Carolina

D

id you know that North Carolina has 1,500 lakes measuring over 10 acres or more in size and 37,000 miles of fresh water streams? And don’t forget the eastern coast sits on the beautiful Atlantic Ocean.

So whether you’re a lake person or an ocean person, or you just love to relax along the water, North Carolina is the perfect place to set your sights.

Thousand Trails and Encore offer eight great locations in North Carolina that are either on the water or so close, you can hear the water’s rush.

Waterway

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Encore’s Waterway RV Resort, Cedar Point

If you can’t guess by its name, Waterway RV Resort is located on the waterway…the Intercoastal Waterway, in Cedar Point.

“The first thing visitors notice about our resort is the beautiful view of the inlet ocean,” said Manager Angela Burns. You can look right out and see the bridge to Emerald Island.”

In addition to the beautiful views, the resort is conveniently located to downtown and local attractions including the aquarium, local historical museums, beaches and plenty of fishing piers.

Goose Creek

Speaking of fishing, the resort’s biggest event is the annual kid’s pin-fishing tournament held each summer. “This is a wonderful event that brings all the families together,” said Angela. This year’s event is set for August 3.

Encore’s Goose Creek RV Resort, Newport

Again, the name says it all! Located along North Carolina’s Crystal Coast, this resort is located on Bogue Sound on the Intracoastal Waterway and is just minutes from the ocean.

But it’s the large family pool, with its 135-foot waterslide that is the draw here. “Our pool is an extremely popular spot,” said Manager Angela Burns. “Our annual family pool party each summer is a huge event that features food, games and prizes for everyone in the family.”

Another plus - Goose Creek’s border waters are known for some of the best saltwater fishing anywhere.

Encore’s Twin Lakes, Chocowinity

The sparkling lakes that lead into the Pamlico Sound that offers some of the best sunsets around is what make Twin Lakes so special to its visitors. The resort is located on a peninsula between the Pamlico River and the Chocowinity Bay and offers something for everyone.

“In addition to our water access, our great fishing and shady sites it what make Twin Lakes the pick for many of our

Lake Gaston

guests,” said Burns. “Plus we’ve got planned events every weekend that offer something for the whole family.” Cornhole tournaments, fishing competitions, and a very patriotic Fourth of July golf cart parade are just a few of the popular events that keep families coming back year after year.

Don’t miss the Fishing Derby Weekend, scheduled for June 7-9, the Kids’ Fishing tournament, June 28-30 or the Pirate Weekend, July 12-14, which includes a visit from Blackbeard himself!

Thousand Trails’ Lake Gaston, Littleton

This gem offers a mile of waterfront access and is located on the wooded shores of Lake Gaston which offers worldclass fishing, swimming, boating and other water sports.

This is a perfect resort to relax lakeside after spending your days visiting nearby Wilson for some antiquing, the Carolina Premium Outlets for great shopping or nearby Raleigh for its museums and restaurants.

Encore’s Lake Myers, Mocksville

Adjacent to Lake Myers, this family-oriented resort is spread out across 74 acres. For water fun, there are canoes, a water slide, paddle boats and bumper boats. The atmosphere is serene and wooded, thanks to the lake and the majestic trees that surround the resort. However, thanks to its Continued on page 30

Lake Myers

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Calendar - April 2013 ACTIVITIES & EVENTS CALENDAR

CALIFORNIA Idyllwild

April 5-26 Idyllwild Arts Visual Arts Senior Show I & II Event is held at the Idyllwild Arts Exhibition Center, 52500 Temecula Drive, just 4 miles from the preserve.

For information call (951) 659-2171, ext. 2251.

Lake Minden April 5-7: Lake Minden Birthday Celebration: Help us celebrate Lake Minden’s 27th birthday with party games and activities. Friday night we’ll have a Pizza Party Potluck, followed by Brown Bag Bingo. On Saturday, watch the Float and Fly RC Pontoon Boats take off and land on the lake, then join us after for Candy Bar Bingo and birthday cake at the Ice Cream Social. April 12-14: Thanks for the memories: This weekend is all about creating, sharing and preserving memories.

Bring your camera and capture the RC Float and Fly Pontoon boats take off and land on the lake. Bring or send your favorite photos of Lake Minden and we’ll create a bulletin board display. Bring additional photos and we’ll create mini memory books, cards and scrapbook pages. April 19-21: Top Ten Things to do at Lake Minden: How many activities can you check off the list of Top Ten Things to do at Lake Minden? Catch a Fish, Paddleboat across the lake, learn a new craft, learn a new game and more. Make new friends at the Friday night Potluck Social and stay for Brown Bag Bingo. Join us Saturday for an Earth Day Scavenger Hunt, play Trash to Treasure croquet, putt-putt golf, Candy Bar Bingo and stay for the Ice Cream Social. April 26-28: Spring has sprung. It’s time to get outside and enjoy the sun. Start your day with a 1 ½ mile walk around the lake followed by 18-holes of putt-putt golf and a game of volleyball or horseshoes. Need a break?

Then come in for a jewelry, scrapbooking or craft class or join other campers in a game or cards.

April 6 Earth Fest Party for the Planet It’s a party for the planet! Learn how to protect and preserve the earth with environmental, wildlife and conservation organizations. Visit the EdZoocation Station to explore animal bio-artifacts, participate in storytelling and activities in the Discovery Room, come face to face with the outreach animals, or listen as keepers present enrichment talks. Held at the Sacramento Zoo, Land Park Drive and Sutterville Road, in Sacramento, just 26 miles from the preserve. For information call (916) 808-5888. Hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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(Events may be subject to change)

Lake of the Springs April 6: Family Dance with DJ Mike Allen and campfire sing-along with John Carter. April 13: Family Dance with DJ Mike Allen and campfire sing-along with John Carter. April 20: Family Dance with Anna Marie and campfire sing-along with John Carter. April 22-26: Spring Line Dance Festival with Marion and Friends. Come dance, dine and have fun! April 27: Family Dance with Anna Marie and campfire sing-along with John Carter.

Palm Springs April 6: End of Season Party. As our season draws to an end and our members head home or onto other adventures we celebrate the season with an All You Can Eat Pasta dinner along with poolside entertainment. April 11: Ladies Day Out. This will be our final outing for the season. We will have lunch at the Jackalope Ranch and shop the local thrift stores.

April 12-14 Coachella Fest This is the musical festival of all festivals. This year Coachella Fest will run for two weekends. Featured performers include the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Held at the Indio Polo Grounds, 81-800 Ave 51, in Indio, just seven miles from the preserve.

For more information visit www.coachella.com or call (888) 512-SHOW. April 26-28 Stagecoach Festival Country music at its finest. There are three different states with performers playing all day long. Some of the headliners for this year include Toby Keith, Trace Adkins, Lady Antebellum, Charlie Pride and The Charlie Daniels Band. Held at the Indio Polo Grounds, 81-800 Ave 51, in Indio, just seven miles from the preserve. For more information call (888) 512-SHOW. Pio Pico April 13: Come join in the excitement and fun as we host the 5th Annual Jamul Kiwanis’ Hot Rod & Chili Cook-Off. Event runs, rain or shine from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Reserve your site now and enjoy an All Class Car Show, Chili Cook-Off with cash prizes, raffles, 50/50 Drawing, Beer Garden, Live Band and DJ, Children’s Play Area and food. This event is open to the public and there is no admission fee. To enter the Car Show or Chili Cook-Off contact Mrs. Burns at (619) 807-4437 or send email to jamulkiwanisab@gmail.com.

ACTIVITIES & EVENTS CALENDAR

Ongoing National Comedy Theater The National Comedy Theater performances are based completely on audience suggestions – from which the cast creates the entire show. Theater is located at 3717 India Street, in San Diego, just 28 miles from the preserve. For more information, show times and ticket prices call (619) 295-4999.

April 20-21 18th Annual Cachuma Lake Trout Derby Anglers of all ages are encouraged to enter this event held at the Cachuma Lake Nature Center, just 11 miles from the preserve. Registration fee for adults is $35 (through March 31) and $40 thereafter. Kids, ages 4-10, can register for $10.

Registration forms are available at the Cachuma Lake Park entry gate, store, marina, Nature Center and several local businesses. For information call (805) 693-8381 or visit www.troutderby.org.

Ponderosa April 21-28 Auburn Wild West Stampede Held annually since 1932, the Auburn Wild West Stampede attracts hundreds of the nation’s top cowboys and cowgirls to compete for thousands in prize money. A week of parties, pageants, fairs and good old western fun for the whole family precedes the weekend’s PRCA pro rodeo. Held at the Gold Country Fairgrounds, 1273 High Street, Auburn, just 20 miles from the preserve. For more information call (530) 889-BUCK or visit www.auburnrodeo.com.

Rancho Oso Every Saturday: 11:00-Noon: Come on down to the arena to watch the stock dogs herding sheep and cattle and stay for the bucking bull demo! Get up close and personal with our young bulls as we prepare them for a future in rodeo! A definite photo op! Every Weekend: Join the fun and hop on board the famous Rancho Oso hay wagon to take a tour of our beautiful resort! Wagon will drop off passengers at the barn for the stock dog and bucking bull demo and barn tour. Don’t forget to call the stables at (805) 683-5110 and book your unforgettable horseback ride for ages 8 and over. Of course, your little buckaroos can get their first ride on a big horse, led by one of our friendly wranglers!

This is a great “photo-op” for your scrapbook. The weather is perfect for hiking, riding, photography, or wine tasting in the Santa Ynez Valley, only a scenic half hour drive away. Don’t want to drive? Let us help you arrange a guided winery tour with a local tour company! Play a round of golf, or just enjoy the driving range at Rancho San Marcos golf course, just six miles away. Later in the day, join us for the Ice Cream Social to make your favorite sundae! Keep the weekend sweet with our Candy Bar Bingo too! Check out the new menu items on Saturday and Sunday at the Stone Lodge Kitchen!

OREGON Seaside April 1: Look Out! You Never Know! April 6: “Let’s Paint Part 1”: We get out and Paint, Paint, Paint!! A Potluck will be held in appreciation of everyone’s hard work and efforts! April 13: “Let’s Paint Part 2”: We get out and Paint, Paint, Paint!! A Potluck will be held in appreciation of everyone’s hard work and efforts! April 13-15: Thai New Year – Songkran. April 19-23: Seaside Welcomes the Lewis and Clark TT Chapter of FMCA. Whalers Rest Throughout April: Tuesdays: Join us for a Pool Tournament in our South Clubhouse at 11 a.m. No experience needed just laughter!

Thursdays: Cinnamon Roll Social in the South Clubhouse at 10 a.m.

Enjoy a huge roll with a cup of coffee or cocoa for $2.50. Fridays: It’s Candy Bar Bingo Fun in our South Clubhouse at 1 p.m. for all ages. We supply the candy! Saturdays: Ice Cream Social at 2 p.m. in the South Clubhouse featuring sundaes, floats and cones with yummy Tillamook Ice Cream.

April 20-21 Wooden Boat Show, Crab Feed, and Ducky Derby Enjoy local, succulent crab and watch master craftsmen build and show off their wooden boats. Take part in cheering your “ducky” to the finish line during Sunday’s Ducky Derby. Wooden Boat show is free and the Crab Feed is $17 for whole crab and $13 for half crab. Held at the Depoe Bay Harbor and Depoe Bay Community Center, less than 20 minutes from preserve. For more information call (541) 765-2889.

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News& Notes

Bay Landing, TX The new Adult Center at Bay Landing is being built and looking very good and will include a laundry room in the back. The underpinning on the new Getaway units looks awesome. The Clubhouse has had some painting, including the kitchen, the floor and the inside interior, as well as the trim. Section 1 laundry room has new washing machines and dryers.

Bear Cave, MI Bear Cave has a new large playground which promises hours of fun! Also, new furniture and umbrellas line the pool deck. Plus, the store has been expanded for the convenience of the campers!

Getaway unit

Bay ding Lan Birch Bay Welcome Cente r

Birch Bay, WA Birch Bay has a new Welcome Center, which replaces the old Ranger/Check-in area. A Grand Opening/Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for the new Welcome Center is scheduled for the weekend of April 19-22 and all are invited.

Diamond Caverns, KY The Leisure Life RVers Club recently recognized Diamond Caverns RV Resort, in Park City, Kentucky, as the “Campground of the Year� for 2012. Leisure Life RVers Club is the largest camping club in Kentucky.

According to Club President Roger Bowling, campers vote each year for their favorite Kentucky campground.

A certificate of recognition for this distinction has been signed by Kentucky Governor Steven L. Beshear and will be presented to the campground in July by the Leisure Life RVers Club.

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Diamond Caverns, a 743-acre resort, caters to the vacationing family, offering southern hospitality, an 18-hole golf course and a unique family atmosphere. It is located at the gateway to Mammoth Cave National Park. Congratulations to Diamond Caverns!

Colorado River, TX Colorado River has updated the Thousand Trails sign located at the intersection of SH 71 and FM 1890. The new sign is brighter and easier to read. The preserve is also in the process of painting various signs in the campground and picnic table repair is ongoing. A new ADA-approved chair lift has been installed at the pool and they purchased a new Polaris GEM electric vehicle for use by maintenance, staff which will help reduce fuel costs and pollution.

Lake Conroe

Idyllwild, CA Idyllwild now has 21 sites with 50-amp service.

Lake Conroe, TX Lake Conroe turned back the clocks one weekend this past February, breaking out their old uniforms and welcoming a fan favorite, Buddy Bear. Buddy stopped in to say hello and was recruited to serve up complimentary hamburgers and hotdogs to approximately 200 members who were visiting that weekend. “It was a great chance to show our appreciation to our loyal members,” said Manager Terry Munoz. “Everyone really enjoyed themselves, meeting our staff, guests and of course, Buddy!”

LC staff in “vin tage” uniform s

Medina Lake, TX Please note that the Top of the Trail Café will be closed April 6-7. The Café serves breakfast, lunch and dinner on Saturdays and breakfast on Sundays.

Morgan Hill, CA The electric upgrade to “G” Section that started last December is now complete. The upgrade to 49 sites consisted of all new electric pedestals with lighting and they will all be 50/30/20-amp sites. Also, Morgan Hill has received three new Lodge rental units to replace the old VT Trailers. The new units are set up and available to rent by our members.

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Mt. Vernon, WA Mt. Vernon has been working on the lodge over the winter re-doing their floors, including those in their yurts. The new Welcome Center is a work progress – watch for more information in May! Pio Pico, CA Complete renovation of the Adult Pools and spa is underway and that will also include new fencing. Pools should re-open in April. The Family Pools will remain open and have been converted to salt water. The salt water is not only better for the pools but also for your skin!

nd Buddy and frie

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Continued from page 15

ACTIVITIES & EVENTS CALENDAR

TEXAS Bay Landing March 29-31: Easter Weekend: Hop on over to Bay Landing for our Easter Activities. Find the Golden Egg at our Egg Hunt and win a HUGE PRIZE. Don’t forget to make a bonnet and basket for the contest also.

At dark we will be having an Adult Flashlight Hunt to find their Golden Egg. April 12-14: Beautify Bay Landing: It’s that time to dig out your gloves and work with the employees to help beautify your park. We will be planting flowers, transplanting trees on the sites that need them and much more! Free spaghetti lunch for those who help! April 26-28: It’s a Bugs Life: Get out your bug cages! It’s time to catch your critters for the critter races and also the bug eating contest!

Colorado River Throughout April: Wednesday Ice Cream Socials at 2 p.m. in the Activity Schedule (every other Wednesday – check with staff for schedule), Thursday Crafts with Maureen at 1 p.m. in the Activity Center (small materials fee may apply), Saturday Craft Sale and Swap Meet from 8 p.m. to noon in the Activity Center (no charge for table), What’s Happening Meeting at 10:30 a.m. and Potluck Dinner at 5:30 p.m. (check with Ranger for sign up and schedule.) Country Music fans should note there are numerous events in the area including the Bluebonnet Festival in Chappell Hill TX, scheduled April 13-14, and the Burton Cotton Gin Festival in Burton TX, set for April 19-20.

Lake Conroe April 6: Kids Fishing and April Birthdays Weekend: There’s fish in them thar ponds, so kids, bring your poles and let’s catch ‘em. Prizes will be awarded so be sure to sign up in the AC for the big fish-off. Afterwards we’ll treat ourselves with an Ice Cream Social. April 13: Beautify the Park Weekend: This weekend we will be sprucing up the park. Come join us for tree planting and some flower planting and gardening. It will be some great outdoor fun. April 20: Crawfish Boil Weekend: Crawfish races, games on the pavilion and some finger-lickin’ good crawfish, Boudin sausage, corn on the cob and potatoes. Yum! Then that evening we’ll be dancing on the pavilion to the ever-popular music of String Benders Band. This is one weekend you won’t want to miss! April 27: Fruity Weekend: Don’t miss out on Lake Conroe’s Famous Fruity Bingo this weekend. We’ll have apples and oranges and bananas and other fruity treats for you to win!

Medina Lake Throughout April: Thursday is Bring Your Own Steak Night - we supply the grill and you bring your choice of meat. Friday Wienie Roast and Saturday Kids Craft (except April 18) and Ice Cream Social.

April 6: Bingo Weekend: We’ll play Ice Cream Bingo, Candy Bar Bingo, Super Bingo - free cards and prizes. April 20: Outside Weekend: We will enjoy the outdoors with Bean Bag Baseball, mini-golf, lawn dice and shuffleboard. Top of the Trail Cafe will barbeque burgers and hot dogs for lunch. April 27: Wacky Day: We’ll play wacky golf and other wacky games. Dress up for our wacky dress contest.

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April 26-27 Wings Over the Hills Nature Festival “A Celebration of Flight” festival, held in Fredericksburg, is an opportunity for the whole family to enjoy the abundance of regional winged wildlife including birds, bats, butterflies and dragonflies. The program features many educational presentations by noted natured specialists. There is an activity area for children, guided field trips on the park’s nature trails and tours. Visitors can enjoy the festival trade show featuring the best products geared toward birding, nature and outdoor activities. Springtime is the best time to visit the Texas Hill country and the wildflower trails. For more information call (830) 998-1927.

WASHINGTON Birch Bay April 19-22: Welcome Center Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Open House Weekend complete with Earth Day activities and Karaoke sing-along party. A milestone for our members and a party not to be missed! Bring your friends along for the fun.

April 6 Annual Birch Bay Road Race A spectacular run along the shores of scenic Birch Bay and country roads for serious and recreational runners alike.

Inspiring vistas, rural roads in the early morning. A scenic 5K and 15K along the Bay. The 15K and 30K add rolling rural roads and million dollar views. Measured course, great support - an “A” race class event at international distances.

A classic road race in every sense of the word. For more information on this event visit www.birchbayroadrace.com.

Grandy Creek/La Conner/Mt. Vernon April 1-30 Skagit Valley Tulip Festival The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is one of the destination events for the Pacific Northwest, held from April 1-30. Every spring hundreds of thousands of people come to enjoy the celebration of spring as millions of tulips burst into bloom.

For more information visit www.tulipfestival.org.

Little Diamond April 19: Preserve opens for the season.

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Royal Lahaina Resort, Maui and Royal Kona Resort, Big Island Royal Lahaina Resort, Maui: The Royal Lahaina Resort is located on Maui which has been honored by Conde Nast Traveler as one of the “Best Islands in the World.” The 27-acre Resort is set on Kaanapali Beach, which was voted “America’s Best Beach.” You will know you’re in Hawai’i the moment you set foot in the understated lobby. From the cool flagstone beneath your feet to the warm koa-wood walls and inviting wicker easy chairs, you will feel the soothing embrace of the tropics.

Royal Kona Resort, Big Island: Even before you are welcomed to the Royal Kona Resort by the gracious staff, you will be embraced by a swirl of salt air, the life-breath of the islands. You will see it ruffling the fronds of the palm trees that fringe the 12 manicured acres, tossing the waves against the stark black lava rocks at the property’s feet, marching columns of clouds across the uninterrupted expanse of sky. The air here presents you with the perfume of tropical flowers. It is a reminder that you are on the Big Island of Hawai’i, a reminder to breathe, to exhale, and completely relax.

ts in an Five nigh room w e i v n a e Oc y fast dail k a e r B • or two f u a u L • il and a t k c o c t unse •S ruise dinner c r ay Dolla d e v i

F • car compact wo* for t • $1636

Travel Dates: 4/1/13 to 12/16/13 Ask us how to complete your package by adding airfare.

Call Preferred Access at (800) 281-4977 *Prices subject to availability and can change at any time and without notice.

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A Midwestern Delight at Pymatuning Valley Resort

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scenic lake, beautiful countryside, a kick-back atmosphere. Activities and amenities geared toward the whole family. A staff that treats everyone like old friends. And bountiful schools of perch and walleye. Sounds like the ideal midwestern vacation retreat. Sounds, in fact, like Pymatuning Valley Resort.

A comforting feel is what you’ll find at this fantastic RV Resort in northeastern Ohio’s Ashtabula County, near the Pymatuning Lake that straddles the Ohio/ Pennsylvania stateline and is well-known to the fishing folk far and wide. A special bonus about the lake – since it’s limited to smaller boats, the fishing and sightseeing pleasures are free of speedboat distractions. (Though there are plenty of nearby lakes for skiing or jet boating, if you have a hankering.)

This resort, open April through October, makes everyone feel like they’ve come home, and it’s geared toward reaching out to the families.

Attraction-wise, perhaps the most unique feature on site is a twisting and turning, slipping and sliding waterpark, featuring slides sized for kiddies to adults.

This really adds to the summer fun.

But when it comes to a truly rare experience, Pymatuning Valley supplies an exceptional viewing treat. In the summertime, you can watch birds walking on the backs of fish, even in the rain.

For further recreational pursuits in the resort, there’s mini-golf, a paintball arena, batting cages for the sluggers in tow, and a large bumper-boat pool with coin-operated spray guns. Even more physical enjoyment can be had with basketball, shuffleboard, tennis, volleyball (sand and water), horseshoes and both indoor and outdoor swimming pools. (Equipment for most of these games is available free of charge.)

Pymatuning Resort is a full-service facility; the park is well maintained, and offers a hefty schedule of planned activities.

The resort was developed in the 1970s and today is owned by Travel Resorts of America. Pymatuning Valley Resort covers 120 acres with 149 campsites and 47 rental units. There are many full-hook-up campsites, but also primitive sites for those who like privacy, off the beaten path. Most of the cabins are the ‘Park’ models the resort staff actually built, which are more solid than the store-boughts. Sleeping four or six comfortably, they are all located within easy walking distance of our pools, clubhouse, waterslides and other amenities.

The resort’s prime rural location, just south of Lake Erie and within an hour’s drive of Pittsburgh and Cleveland, allows visitors the choice of a small-town ambience along with proximity to zoos (such as the Deer Park in Jamestown, PA), museums, wineries, antique shops, theme parks and a further variety of entertainment fun.

But if you choose to never leave the resort, you can take advantage of three picnic pavilions, a camp store and restaurant with gift shop, hiking trails and bike rentals, and an Internet room (using their computers or yours).

Plus, the clubhouse includes an adult lounge with bigscreen TV, cable, and VCR/DVD hook-up, plenty of board games and cards, a library, game room, dry sauna, and private-use party room with kitchen and private bathrooms. A remarkable array to make your stay the best possible.

Not a RPI M n e Add R mber?

PI Bas ic for O or RPI nly $79 Plus fo r $89

Ca 1-800- ll 63 for inf 5-8498 ormat ion

You mu st be a NACO, or Mid LTR -Atlanti c mem to quali ber fy for th is offer.

At Pymatuning Valley Resort, RPI visitors, like everyone, are treated like old friends, even those who are here for the first time. The overall theme is let-down-your-hair, pop-the-top-off a beverage and just relax, while the staff prepares the next of many activities for your family’s enjoyment. You can simply enjoy your campfire and other leisure time choices, or be included in the planned activities while you are here.

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Mike and Nancy Stewart

MIke at Russian River Preserve

I Knew I Was a

T

TrailBlazer

his month, TrailBlazer would like to introduce you to Mike Stewart, a born and raised Californian. Both he and his wife were teachers and coaches in Ventura County for 37 years. After retiring, the Stewarts were presented with many opportunities to visit family members and explore the country. With three grown children, one grandchild and one on the way, they still make time to do what they love: camp and RV!

TB: How long have you been camping and RVing?

Who introduced you to it? Tell us how it all began!

MS: I really never camped as a youth. My dad worked at his own business six days a week and my mom preferred not to stay in a tent. As adults we camped in tents for a few years, but purchased a used tent trailer in 1979. Have been camping ever since because of the dollar savings and fun of staying in our “own house” while on the road.

TB: How did you first hear about Thousand Trails?

MS: We responded to an offer in a magazine to 22

APRIL 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

get a 3 day/2 night free camping experience if we attended a sales meeting for one hour. We headed to the Thousand Trails Rancho Oso Preserve just north of Santa Barbara in Southern California. We loved the weekend at the beautiful campground, but did not purchase a membership for about six months. In 2001 we bought a Basic Membership and have since upgraded to an Elite Membership in 2011. We like the easiness of online reservations, the security of the campgrounds and the “nature-like” aspect of most preserves.

TB: What is one of your fondest camping memories?

MS: While camping in the Mammoth Lakes area of the Eastern Sierras in California, I hiked to the Devils Postpile National Park with my wife and 1 ½ year old son. I put him in a backpack carrier because walking was too dangerous for someone that young. During the walk, he proceeded to pull on my half and drool down my neck while talking the entire time. After a short time in the sun, he enjoyed his way back to camp asleep on my back.

TB: What type of camper are you/what equipment do you use?

MS: For the past three years we have used a Forest River 30-foot fifth wheel with three slideouts, one for the bedroom wardrobe cabinet and two in the living room.

We pull the trailer with a 2005 Chevy Silverado 2500 with a short bed.

TB: Do you have any funny camping/RV stories?

MS: We set out to see the Pacific coastline from California all the way to Canada. While camping in our tent trailer in the Glacier National Park area, the weather was hit and miss. Rain one moment, sun the next. After settling in for the night, in our tent trailer, in our double sleeping bag, around 2 a.m. my wife raised herself up and started screaming, “the bed is all wet.” Seems that it rained so hard in the evening that the rain soaked onto her side of the tent trailer, getting her section of the mattress and sleeping bag all wet. Needless to say, the rest of the night was not a pleasant situation for anyone. But we survived it all.

TB: Where have you gone that you wouldn’t have otherwise, if it hadn’t been for Thousand Trails Membership?

MS: Cottonwood, Arizona, where the Thousand Trails Verde Valley Preserve is located. We camped there for three days one fall season. Loved it so much that we went back for a week in a rental cabin to visit Sedona, Jerome, Prescott, Montezuma Castle National Park and more. So much to see and do in this region. It is a must for Thousand Trails members, especially in the spring and fall.

Mike at Pacific City Preserve

Mike and son Matt

TB: What is your favorite part about the outdoor lifestyle?

MS: We love having our “home on wheels” with us at all times. It makes it convenient to discover new and beautiful places by foot, bike or truck.

TB: Any other camping stories?

MS: OK, I have a Facebook story. While camping in the Mammoth Lakes RV Resort in October of 2012, I opened the Internet and checked my Facebook account. I posted a photo of us being in the area on Wednesday. Thursday morning I got a post (reply) from Steve, the best man at our wedding. He mentioned he was also in the area and we should get together. I then messaged him that we were camping at Mammoth Lakes RV Resort with our site number. I told him we would be available after Continued on page 63

Our fifth wheel trailer at Rancho Oso Preserve APRIL 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

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Spotlight | Horsin’ Around at Thousand Trails

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t’s time to go for a ride, and we aren’t talking about one on a bike. For centuries, horses have provided a popular and stable source of both transportation and recreation. They have served as protectors, pets and for some, an occupation.

For those of us who are outdoor lovers, it’s hard not to notice their natural beauty and grace. So, why not spend some time horsing around while you’re visiting a Thousand Trails location?

has a new horse camp section, which includes five power and water sites, tent sites, four horse pens, a large firepit with rustic benches and a fully stocked 847-square foot Bunk House which sleeps 10. Take a quick trot around the preserve’s new

Check out these six TT preserves that offer horse camping, horseback riding or both!

Oakzanita Springs - Descanso, CA With six corrals for horse camping, Oakzanita Springs is the perfect preserve for you and your gallant steed to visit. The preserve offers access to the beautiful Cuyamaca State Park trails.

Cuyamaca features over 100 miles of trails with pine and oak forestation, meadows, streams, and ocean and desert views. Horse lovers are welcome to grab a day pass and spend a few hours hitting the trails with their equestrian friends.

Chehalis - Chehalis, WA We all know that camping is better with friends, and Chehalis wants to make sure that your equine friends are included! This year, Chehalis

perimeter trails such as Trigger Turn Out, Pinto Plains and Stallion Straightaway. During your ride, you’ll come across thousands of juicy berries to pick, a great spot to hitch up your horse and grab lunch at the Family Lodge, and take in all of the local wildlife. From beginner trails to rougher terrain, the trails around the Chehalis preserve make for a great two to three hour ride.

Pacific City - Cloverdale, OR Pacific City offers horse camping corrals on site, so you and your favorite four legged friend won’t be too far apart while camping! Additionally, a trail departs from the horse camping area and goes directly to the beach, giving both horse and rider a beautiful backdrop for a ride. Upon check in, all horse campers will receive a horse riding trail map.

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Are you a horse fanatic but don’t have one of your own? There are vendor horseback riding options near the preserve. Green Acres Beach and Trail Rides is located just two miles south of Pacific City, in Tierra Del Mar. Don’t miss out on riding along the beach while visiting Cloverdale!

Rancho Oso - Santa Barbara, CA Rancho Oso offers plenty of options for horse lovers and owners, alike. With a professionally trained staff on duty 24/7, your horse can live in luxury among the foothills of Santa Barbara. This preserve has a large variety in terms of corrals and boarding options. Rancho Oso is also open year-round for horseback rides.

Ages eight and up can hit the trails, while those who are 7-years-old or younger can go for a hand led ride with a wrangler taking the lead. Prior to leaving for the trail ride, all participants receive instruction on the handling of the horse they’re riding.

The Rancho Oso horses are gentle and well-suited for beginners. For those who are more experienced, Rancho Oso offers longer rides through the Los Padres National Forest, which surrounds the ranch.

Idyllwild - Idyllwild, CA Idyllwild is available for both horse camping and horseback riding. The preserve features horse camping yearround, though during the winter months it is important to call the preserve directly prior to arrival to ensure that they are not snowed in. Horseback riding is available May 15 through September 15 on site and provided by a vendor, with fees ranging from $40-75 based on the length of the ride. With the beautiful location of the Idyllwild preserve, it’s no wonder why so many people chose to make this a horseback riding destination! ■

by Annie Colletti APRIL 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

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Receive a $25 American Express Gift Card when your referral purchases a Zone Camping Pass.

Your referral also enters you into our 2013 drawing for a chance to win these great prizes.

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APRIL 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

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GLOBAL NOBLE - ARGENTINA

W

ith the spindle repaired, Noble, Dean and their new friend, Richard Dugdale, hit the road for Buenos Aires, which was, according to Noble, “a long 1000 miles north through the Pampas.”

About 300 miles south of Buenos Aires, Dean and Richard left the Jeep to bird watch in the bush country, sending Noble on ahead to take care of housekeeping chores, including finding passage from Rio to Capetown, for both the men and the Jeep. Additionally, Noble sent a fleet load of film back to California for processing and picked up, and answered, the mail waiting for them at the U.S. Embassy.

Noble reminds us that this kind of arrangement worked well for both of them. “Dean wanted to stay and bird watch and I was eager to get into some sort of civilization to discuss life with the natives. Our agreement worked and worked well,” said Noble.

Because the Jeep was so overloaded, flat tires were commonplace. The pair became so adept at changing a flat; they got it down to just seven minutes from start to finish.

“I had one flat during my 300 mile solo drive,” said Noble.

“Here I was, alone on a dirt road, well-travelled by trucks but I had that flat changed in nine minutes. No sweat.”

Once in Buenos Aires, Noble went about his chores which also included taking the Jeep to the Jeep Agency. The Jeep was in need of a brake job because of all that occurred in Chile so he had a few days’ time. “Dean was enjoying a slow journey north and I had letters to write, film to assemble, tickets to purchase, visas to obtain and sites to see,” he said. “Just another dull day in our lives. A great part of the adventure was just attempting to get done what needed to get done. But we couldn’t anticipate or plan because we never knew what our real travel route would be. By this time, July 1959, my printed itinerary that I had distributed to all my friends stateside said we would be in Argentina in April/June… Nice try!”

Noble enjoyed his days in Buenos Aires. He was treated to a meatless lunch (at that time Argentine restaurants did not serve beef on Mondays to encourage the exportation of beef ) by the Jeep managers, spent eight hours answering

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his mail at the embassy and enjoyed a night on the town with the Marines from the Embassy.

Back in Bolivia, Marion Parks had entrusted Noble with a carton of cigarettes to deliver to her friend, Mrs. Villarina in Buenos Aires. With this mission accomplished, Mrs. Villarena then arranged for Noble to be interviewed by the editor of the newspaper La Nacion. “We were interviewed in many countries because our story was real and fresh,” recalls Noble.

At the office of the Royal Interocean Lines to confirm an August 29 departure for Capetown, Noble’s confirmation included a note that read “Your passage was paid for by the Chancellor of UCLA.” “I did not know the Chancellor of UCLA,” said Noble. “And besides, I am a Trojan from USC. What would I find out in Rio de Janeiro? Regardless, it’s always nice to look a gift horse in the mouth, is it not?”

Dean finally arrived from his bird watching in the bush and they headed off to Montevideo, Uruguay, via an overnight boat trip. They were met in Montevideo by the treasurer of General Electric/Uruguay at the time, Mr. Howard Croninger, who they had been introduced to by friends a few months before. Howard took them to his private club for tennis and dinner with family and friends.

“So this grubby set of guys had an opportunity to clean up and then dress for many occasions,” said Noble. “Dean and I each had one suit which we housed in a very thin 12inch wide closet in the Jeep. It was plenty big for guys who wore almost nothing but shirts and shorts for most of the adventure…or how could we call it an adventure?”

The Croningers, in turn, also introduced them to their friends, the Erhards, who took them on a musical adventure

to the Teatro Colon. “A young Polish conductor, Stanislaw Skrowaczewksi, was performing with the Buenos Aires Symphony,” recalls Noble. “Our best box seats only cost us $1.50 US. The crowd was so enthusiastic at this event that they were still clapping even after the orchestra and director had departed.”

As fascinating as Buenos Aires was, Noble and Dean were anxious to get to Paraguay and its capital city of Asuncion as well as travel east to see the world’s greatest water falls – Iguazu Falls on the Rio Parana where Paraguay, Argentina and Brazil all meet. “What a sight – 2.5 miles across, dropping over 800 feet in a series of cascades,” said Noble.

In Asuncion, they found a city with no public sewage system. “This was frontier living in the 20th century,” said Noble. “But the main street was lined with orange trees so we felt right at home.”

“At the border of Brazil, life is casual,” recalls Noble. “No place to check out or in on the other side of the Rio Parana, so we boated across to explore Brazil, leaving the Jeep behind in Paraguay until we found a boat big enough to handle the Jeep.” They found “Joe,” a Brazilian who had spent two years in the US Navy during World War II, who spoke English and knew the territory. “Just what we needed,” said Noble. They also found a boat that could ferry the Jeep – a boat whose captain assured them he had ferried a lot of Jeeps across the river. “But when we attempted to drive on board the boat, it was apparent that our Jeep was too heavy,” said Noble. “In fact, here we were on the river’s edge in a boat that was not floating but instead easing out into the river on the river’s muddy bottom with nothing for us to do but watch the Jeep slowly drown in the Rio Parana. What to do?” Luckily, a band of army recruits were jogging on the river’s embankment. 40 cadets were commandeered with ropes to retrieve the Jeep from its potential river bank grave and tie it up until a another boat could be found. “Joe told us he would find us a Brazilian naval vessel in the morning. So we went to bed that night tied to the shore waiting for the surprise in the morning,” said Noble.

thinking the Jeep was in good hands and that I could handle the entry into Brazil.” Dean hopped in a faster canoe to see Brazilian birds and planned to meet on the other side. “That seemed fine with me…until we pushed off and found that only one pump worked. So we had net water entering and over a mile to go. No alternative – do or die,” said Noble. Off they went, paddling at a speed of five knots across the Rio Parana and hoping to make it to the Brazilian side before the landing craft filled with water and sank.

“It was a 12 minute crossing. You can take on a lot of water in 12 minutes and we did. Just yards from the shore the craft began to founder and gave great signs that it was no longer seaworthy. But its momentum took it to the soft shore and down came the tailgate,” said Noble.

Noble backed the Jeep off the craft. Its seaworthiness was restored and all seemed OK – except the Jeep was in soft sand up to its axles, permeating the brakes and it could not move. “So I spent the rest of the day taking each wheel off and dusting out the sand,” said Noble. “Good old Joe stayed with me to help and just before sundown a team of eight mules came by. What a blessing. It took all eight mules to tow the Jeep up to dry land. But we made it!”

High and dry and back on the road again. “Dean arrived after having had a ball – what country has more species of birds than Brazil!” said Noble. “And we had Joe, a true trooper and a new friend when we really needed one in the know!”

Where to next? Don’t miss the May TrailBlazer and Brazil and the passage to Capetown, South Africa. ■

That surprise came in the form of a Brazilian WWII landing craft with a gate in front and the boat operator in the back.

Joe had indeed commandeered a Brazilian navy landing craft and it was wide enough for the seven-foot Jeep. But…it was not long enough so the tailgate never closed tightly, enabling water to enter the craft.

“The boatman was not alarmed because he had four pumps onboard and we could pump out the water as it entered,” said Noble. “So all was OK, we were ready to see Iguazu Falls and Dean departed in another direction for bird watching,

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TrailMix continued from page 13

proximity to Winston-Salem, the bustle of the city is not too far away.

Forest Lake

Come stay at Lake Myers and consider renting a villa or a cabin, which can accommodate up to eight guests.

Thousand Trails’ Forest Lake, Advance

Nestled along the banks of the Yadkin River, this is a country experience not to be missed. Once part of the Cooleemee Tobacco Plantation, the resort is now home to deer, turkey, many species of hawk and plenty of game fish including bass, catfish, crappie and bluegill.

On site amenities include pools, horseshoe pits, volleyball court and two air-conditioned lodges. Nearby attractions include the Childress Vineyards, the North Carolina Zoological Park and the Reynolda Village Botanical Gardens in Winston-Salem.

Encore’s Scenic RV, Asheville

Did you know that the Asheville Area is home to more than 25 waterfalls, thanks to its Blue Ridge Mountains location? Come explore them all while staying at Scenic RV.

Scenic

This resort, in a serene mountain setting, is the perfect home base to explore not only the waterfalls, but also historical Biltmore and the architecture, culture, and history that is Asheville.

Asheville is also a major hub for whitewater kayaking and many kayak companies operate out of the Asheville area.

Additionally, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers scenic vistas and plenty of opportunities for hiking.

Now you know why we call it Scenic!

Thousand Trails’ Green Mountain, Lenoir

At the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains, in the quaint town of Lenoir, you’ll find Green Mountain, a 1,084 acre beauty.

There’s plenty to do here, including horseshoes, shuffleboard, fishing, sand volleyball, mini-golf and ping-pong. Take a nature walk, try your hand at an arts & crafts class or enjoy some of the planned events or live entertainment.

The town of Lenoir is best known for its furniture heritage and is the birthplace of some of the most skilled and gifted craftsmen in the industry. Looking for the perfect piece to complete your home? Visit the 20 miles of furniture shopping outlets nearby.

And the craftspeople here know more than just furniture.

Each year, artists from all over converge here for the annual Indoor/Outdoor Sculpture Celebration, one of the southeast’s large sculpture competitions.

For more information and to make reservations, visit www.ThousandTrails.com ■ 30 30 APRIL 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

Green Mountain

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Southeastern

North Carolina:

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From Swansboro to Chocowinity and Beyond in Nicholas Sparks Country

By Lynn Seldon

t’s easy to see why author Nicholas Sparks loves living in—and writing about—southeastern North Carolina.

It’s hard to beat the settings in reality or in his bestselling novels, thanks to charming historic towns, quiet beaches, tidal rivers, and pretty marshes as far as the eye can see.

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That’s certainly the case with the drive between historic Swansboro and the community of Chocowinity (and nearby Washington just across the Pamlico River). Time spent driving, stopping, and exploring can include history, small towns, beaches, rivers, marshes, and more.

“Southport Old Yacht Basin and Fishy Fishy Café, near where much of Safe Haven’s film work was done and a favorite with Sparks and the cast and crew”

Swansboro is a great place to start (or end) days of exploration. The “Friendly City by the Sea” sits at the confluence of the White Oak River and the Intracoastal Waterway (including a scenic walkway). Just a few blocks in size and featured in Sparks’s The Guardian, Swansboro’s historic district includes quaint shops, many historic houses and buildings (look for plaques with dates they were built), and popular restaurants.

With an Elvis statue at the entrance and a nostalgic 1950s interior, Yana’s is the most popular place in town for breakfast and lunch—including tasty hamburgers that the menu says will take 20 minutes to prepare correctly. There’s often a wait, so locals also recommend nearby IceHouse Waterfront Restaurant for the seafood and the views.

Just southwest of Swansboro, Hammocks Beach State Park is a popular destination from spring to fall. Bear Island, the main attraction of the park, is only accessible by passenger ferry or private boat (there’s also a popular launching dock for kayakers).

Once there, quiet beachcombing, fishing, and even primitive camping (by reservation) await lucky visitors.

Photo by Bill Russ — VisitNC.com

Photo by Lynn Seldon

Swansboro’s Yana’s restaurant

“Inn at Rodanthe is the house used in the movie, Nights in Roadanthe”

Photo courtesy Cindy Brochure and John Muuss APRIL 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

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Photo by Bill Russ — VisitNC.com

lace, “ Tr yon Pa in d mentione the Road A Bend in e dd ing” and The W

Heading back out of Swansboro in the other direction on US 24 toward the tiny communities of Cedar Point (pick up some fresh catch at Clyde Phillips Seafood), Cape Carteret, and Bogue, any map lures explorers across the bridge to Emerald Isle. The town of Emerald Isle is the first of several island beach communities right on the Atlantic Ocean, with the interesting drive along US 58 passing through Indian Beach, Salter Path, Pine Knoll Shores, and Atlantic Beach before heading back to the mainland.

Long a favorite family-oriented beach destination, Emerald Isle is popular for beach time, fishing (including famed Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier), and biking (there’s a wide bike path). Seafood restaurants (like Jordan’s House of Seafood) are also quite popular and prevalent.

©All rights reserved by New Bern Convention & Visitors Bureau

Photo by Bill Russ — VisitNC.com

Next, Pine Knoll Shores features more beachfront, more watersports opportunities, and the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores. Popular exhibits take visitors on a waterborne journey from the mountains to the sea, including shark-feeding scuba divers, sunken ships, and lots of colorful fish. There are also North Carolina Aquariums down near Wilmington at Kure Beach’s Fort Fisher and up in the Outer Banks in Manteo (with additional Aquarium programs and activities at Jeannette’s Pier in Nags Head).

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“New Bern specifically pla ys a ro le in three Sparks no vels: A Bend in the Road, The We d d ing and The N otebo ok” Union Point Park

Centenary Methodist Church

Atlantic Beach is the home of historic Fort Macon State Park, which features a Civil War fort, cannons, exhibits, and programs. Atlantic Beach is also the home of several waterfront seafood restaurants, including The Crabs Claw near the Oceanana Fishing Pier and Channel Marker Restaurant near the Atlantic Beach Bridge leading back to the mainland’s waterfront communities of Morehead City and Beaufort.

Featured in the April, 2009 cover story of TrailBlazer, the Crystal Coast towns of Morehead City and Beaufort remain as alluring as ever. Morehead City highlights of any visit have to include The History Place (lots of fascinating regional history) and seafood-driven fare at either sprawling historic Sanitary Fish Market and Restaurant (celebrating their 75th anniversary in 2013) or more intimate Bistro-by-the-Sea (look for menu items labeled “Carteret Catch” for the freshest local seafood creatively prepared).

Beaufort also has much to offer, including the North Carolina Maritime Museum (with the Watercraft Center across the street), Beaufort Historic Site (historic buildings and more), and outings to uninhabited Rachel Carson National Estuarine Research Reserve just across Taylors Creek and Cape Lookout National Seashore—home to wild horses and the 1859 Cape Lookout Lighthouse. These outings (and more) are easily arranged by Outer Banks Ferry

APRIL 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

Service right on the Beaufort waterfront. The town’s don’t-miss Beaufort Grocery Co. restaurant now has a second location in Morehead City—Beaufort Grocery Too.

Heading northwest on US 70 out of Morehead City toward New Bern, Newport is famed for the Newport Pig Picking Contest every April. Much of the rest of the drive all the way to New Bern is through 160,000-acre Croatan National Forest. This is a land of pine forests, lakes, bogs, raised swamps, saltwater estuaries, and rivers. Possible outdoor options include hiking, boat launches, fishing, swimming, and primitive camping.

or “Beaufort Harb – Beaufort was the setting for Sparks’ A Walk to Remember e” and The C ho ic

New Bern specifically plays a role in three Sparks novels: A Bend in the Road, The Wedding, and The Notebook.

Highlights of the walking tour include Union Point Park and the docks behind the waterfront DoubleTree (both featured in A Bend in the Road), the Alfred Cunningham Bridge leading into town (in The Notebook), the Masonic Theater and Centenary Methodist Church (both in The Notebook), historic Cedar Grove Cemetery (mentioned as part of a funeral procession in A Bend in the Road).

Sparks also featured two tasty New Bern restaurants in A Bend in the Road: Pollock Street Deli (“the best sandwiches in town”) and Fred & Claire’s (which now houses the creative cuisine of 247 Craven).

Photo by Bill Russ — VisitNC.com

Staff at New Bern’s friendly Convention & Visitors Center are happy to share the self-guided “Walk to Remember” walking tour with fans of the writer’s popular books and numerous resulting movies. The walk also provides a way to see many of the city’s sights.

Photo by Bill Russ — VisitNC.com

On the way, the town of Havelock marches to the beat of Marines stationed at adjacent Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point. With planes and a huge helicopter awaiting visitors, the Havelock Tourist & Event Center & Aviation Exhibit puts Newport’s role in peace into perspective—as does the roar of jets often heard while in town. Five restored aircraft are on display, along with scaled models, historic photography, and other artifacts depicting the history of the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing at Cherry Point since its inception way back in 1942. Havelock is also home to June’s Cherry Point Air Show and October’s Havelock Chili Festival.

New Bern on the Neuse River is next and it’s best to plan to stay awhile. Nicholas Sparks certainly did— having made North Carolina and New Bern his home for many years.

Beaufort

Photos courtesy Crystal Coast Tourism Authority

Pronounced “Bo-furt,” Beaufort was the setting for Sparks’s A Walk to Remember and also The Choice.

A Walk to Remember is one of the novelist’s most personal books in that it was inspired by his sister, who died of cancer in 2000.

Emerald Isle

Air Show APRIL 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

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Other Heritage Walking Tours available from the Convention & Visitors Center include “Civil War Heritage,” “Historic Homes,” “Architectural,” and “African-American History.”

They all provide a great way to see the town Sparks obviously loves.

Along with taking one of the walking tours, many visitors to New Bern start with Tryon Palace Historic Sites & Gardens.

Tryon Palace served as the North Carolina government when New Bern was the state capital in the late-1700s and was mentioned in A Bend in the Road and The Wedding.

A visit to Tryon Palace proper and more starts at the adjacent North Carolina History Center, where the soaring Cannon Gateway provides orientation exhibits and the rest of the museum features rotating coverage and interactive historical activities—as well as Lawson’s Landing, a tasty Riverwalk café right on the Neuse. The Tryon Palace Museum Store (no admission required) features many items representative of North Carolina history, including decorative pieces for the home and garden, collectibles, porcelain, and many books.

A 1798 fire destroyed the original Palace building, but it

was carefully reconstructed more than 150 years later on the original site. The Palace’s impressive collection of fine art, antiques, silver, and ceramics is worth the price of admission on its own, but those who love to travel will also enjoy the map collection from some of the most important European map makers of the 17th and 18th centuries.

The Palace’s 16 acres of gardens were designed by noted landscape architect Morley Jeffers Williams in the 1950s and represent the formal garden style of 18th century Britain. The Kitchen Garden is especially tasteful—though no picking allowed!

There are several historic houses nearby that are included in admission, the 1780s John Wright Stanly House (home of several successful Stanly men and their families), the George W. Dixon House (the home of a prominent New Bern merchant), and the 19th century Robert Hay House. Though not part of the Tryon Palace complex, the circa 1790 AttmoreOliver House is also well worth a visit.

The Regional History Museum is another highlight of the overall Tryon Palace experience. Here, visitors follow the

Photo by Bill Russ — VisitNC.com

“Cape Lo oko ut National Seash ore – ho me to w ild horses and the 1859 Cape Lo o ko ut Lig htho use”

New Bern Firemen’s Museum

Background photo: Cape Lookout National Seashore for Carteret County TDB. Crystal Coast Tourism Authority 36 APRIL 2013 | TRAILBLAZER 36

“River of Light” to explore five centuries of the region’s history themed exhibits exploring “Environment,” “Community,” and “Work.”

Another interesting part of New Bern’s history can be found just up Middle Street at the Birthplace of Pepsi. Here, at his pharmacy, Caleb Bradham invented “Brad’s Drink,” which he later patented as Pepsi-Cola. Today, thirsty visitors can enjoy a sample and buy souvenirs at the recreated soda fountain.

Nearby, the New Bern Firemen’s Museum features the state’s first chartered fire department. There are horse drawn steam engines and other original firefighting equipment and relics.

Throughout town, creatively painted bear sculptures are easy to spot. New Bern was named for Bern, Switzerland, and a bear serves as the town symbol and mascot.

Just northeast of New Bern, the town of Chocowinity was once a thriving hub of the Norfolk Southern Railway. It was incorporated in 1959 and recent growth can be attributed to the development of Cypress Landing on Chocowinity Bay.

Nearby, across the Pamlico River, historic Washington awaits.

Often referred to as the “Original Washington,” the town was the first municipality named for George Washington. The town was founded in 1776, when Washington was a general and well before he became the first president of the United States.

Today’s still-quaint waterfront town has many historic and modern highlights. These include the North Carolina Estuarium (exhibits explore the vast areas in the state where fresh and salt water meet), waterfront Festival Park, lots of colorfully painted blue crab sculptures, eclectic shopping, and varied outings on the schooner Jeanie B, a 72-foot gaff-rigged tall ship.

Main Street and Water Street feature several locally-owned and –operated restaurants including Down on Main Street (creative sandwiches and seafood); The Bank bistro & bar (located in a historic bank building); and On the Waterfront (steaks, oysters, other seafood, and views).

Who knows—maybe Nicholas Sparks will provide a taste of the “Original Washington” in his next novel! n

Photo by Lynn Seldon

“co lorfully painte d blue crab sculpture at Festival Park waterf ront”

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uite simply, famed author Nicholas Sparks loves North Carolina. All of his novels have been based in the Tar Heel State, including both real and fictional settings in a variety of well-known North Carolina destinations, including New Bern (where Sparks lives), Beaufort, Swansboro, Edenton, Oriental, Rodanthe, the North Carolina mountains, Wilmington, and—most recently—Southport (for the bestselling novel and feature film, Safe Haven).

Sparks was born in Omaha, Nebraska, in 1965. As a child, he lived in Nebraska, Minnesota, and California, attending high school in Fair Oaks. He ran track at Notre Dame and wrote his first (never published) novel after his freshman year. He and his wife, Catherine, were married in 1989—moving to Sacramento. He also wrote his second novel that year (also never published). In 1990, Sparks coauthored a book (Wokini) with 1965 Olympic gold medalist Billy Mills, with sales topping 50,000 books the first year.

Novelist/producer, Nicholas Sparks on the set of Relativity Media´s “Safe Haven.” ©2012 Safe Haven Productions. All Rights Reserved.

Photo Credit: James Bridges

Q

By Lynn Seldon

The couple moved to North Carolina in 1992 and, over a period of six months in 1994, Sparks wrote The Notebook (set in New Bern). Of that novel, Sparks recalls, “The Notebook was inspired by my wife’s grandparents, two wonderful people who spent over 60 years together.”

Images www.nicholassparks.com

The Notebook was published in 1996, followed by Message in a Bottle (1998), A Walk to Remember (1999), The Rescue (2000), A Bend in the Road (2001), Nights in Rodanthe (2002), The Guardian (2003), The Wedding (also 2003), True Believer (2005), At First Sight (the 2005 sequel to True Believer), Dear John (2006), The Choice (2007), The Lucky One (2008), The Last Song (2009), Safe Haven (2010), and The Best of Me (2011). His books have been translated into more than 45 languages and have racked up more than $80 million in sales.

Sparks traveled well beyond North Carolina’s borders for the 2004 non-fiction memoir, Three Weeks With My Brother, co-authored with his older brother, Micah. Though Sparks has hesitated pursing a traditional memoir at this point in his life, he says, “It turns out that my brother and I took a trip around the world, and the more we traveled and talked, the more we began to think we could write a story about brotherhood, all set around the trip we were taking.” The result is a mixture of memoir and travelogue that makes for a great read on or off the road.

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Back home in North Carolina, Sparks and Catherine launched the Nicholas Sparks foundation in 2011. It’s a nonprofit foundation committed to improving cultural and international understanding through global education experiences for students of all ages. The foundation and personal gifts from the couple have meant more than $10 million to deserving charities, scholarship programs, and projects. Because they cover all operational costs, 100% of donations go to the programs.

Continued on page 65

Photo courtesy Cindy Brochure and John Muuss Photo courtesy Wilmington and Beaches CVB Photo courtesy N.C. Division of Parks and Recreation Photo courtesy Cindy Brochure and John Muuss

T

Nicholas Sparks, Julianne Hough and Josh Duhamel

Wilmington Convention Center

“Fort Fisher, as seen in Safe Haven”

“Mo ore Street Market, as seen in Safe Haven”

he riverfront towns of Southport and Wilmington recently provided yet another North Carolina setting for a Nicholas Sparks novel and resulting film (the eighth Sparks book to hit the silver screen). Safe Haven— the romantic thriller starring Josh Duhamel and Julianne Hough—which debuted this past Valentine’s Day, after being filmed exclusively in Southport and Wilmington.

In a popular pre-Safe Haven film called A Night With Nicholas Sparks. Safe Haven: Filmmakers, Author And Stars Bring The Book To Life, Sparks praised the southeastern North Carolina settings in fiction and film: “The sunsets, the coast—it’s a good place. The closer you get to the coast, the smaller things get. The slow pace of life has an influence on me. I write stories where people have time to connect.”

It’s easy to connect with both towns as seen in the film.

The possibilities in and around Southport include the ferry between Fort Fisher, across the Cape Fear River, and Southport; the old-timey city blocks where the dramatic Fourth of July scenes were filmed; Ports of Call restaurant, where a romantic dinner was shot and actor Josh Duhamel learned to shuck an oyster; and Old American Fish Co. restaurant, where the character Katie (Julianne Hough) worked as a waitress.

Across the Cape Fear at Fort Fisher State Recreation Area, the fictional couple enjoyed a romantic kiss on the wide and deserted beach. Over in Wilmington—often referred to as “Wilmywood” and “Hollywood of the East” because of all the film work done there—the characters strolled by the Wilmington Convention Center and the Carolina Apartments on Market Street during a visit.

Along with their fictional roles, the cast and crew also took advantage of other area offerings during filming, including Julianne Hough’s 23rd birthday celebration at Ports of Call; popular Fishy Fishy Café, near where much of the film work was done and a favorite with Sparks and the cast and crew; a guided paddling trip with Adventure Kayak Company; and tee times, dining, and libations at Oak Island Golf Club.

Duhamel, often accompanied by his wife, Fergie, of The Black Eyed Peas fame, stayed on Oak Island and continues to publicly rave about his time on the island and in Southport—yet another southeastern North Carolina town now in the Nicholas Sparks spotlight. With the addition of Southport, Sparks has now featured southeastern North Carolina’s Beaufort, Edenton, New Bern, Swansboro, and Wilmington (which was already highlighted in Dear John, Message in a Bottle, and The Last Song prior to Safe

by Lynn Seldon Haven). n APRIL 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

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W

hen comparing the different types of art mediums, glass blowing seems to be the most daring of the bunch. Unlike other artists who use simple instruments like paint brushes or clay, glass artists work with blow torches, a searing 2,000-degree oven, and they twirl molten hot globs of glass on the end of a pipe. Sounds a bit crazy, right? Despite all its potential hazards, however, glass blown art is quite popular and has hooked and drawn in lots of artists and fans.

Currently, the U.S. has more than 200 glass blowing studios that offer educational programs, plus a couple large museums dedicated solely to promoting glass art.

Surprisingly, the basic methods of glass blowing have changed very little over the last 2,000 years. Traditionally performed by a team, the process begins by spooling a glowing hot glob of liquid glass with a honey-like consistency on the end of a hollow pipe. One person (called a gaffer) turns and blows through the pipe, enlarging the glass form, kind of like blowing a bubble with bubble gum. At the other end of the pipe, a teammate helps shape the emerging form by using different instruments such as shears and crimps. The form must be periodically reheated by returning it to a super-hot oven, called the glory hole, or sometimes artists will blast it with a blow torch. To give the glass color, the blob is dipped and rolled in shards of colored glass bits. The final furnace is called the “lehr” or “annealer”

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and is used to slowly cool the glass, over a period of a few hours to a few days, depending on the size of the pieces.

Many glass studios, also called hot shops because of the heat from the ovens, invite the public to come watch their artists at work. Skilled teams can make the production looks easy and are fascinating to watch. Artists must work fast before the glass begins to cool, yet they must handle the glass with delicate precision. For viewers, the fun part is watching the object take shape before your eyes, as an ugly blob is manipulated into a colorful vase, bowl or figurine.

Here are a variety of ways you can experience glass blown art, whether you want to admire the fine work of masters, watch skilled artists at work or try to make your own glass keepsake.

Chihuly Garden and Glass

This new exhibit in Seattle, which opened in 2012, features the work of renowned Northwest glass artist, Dale Chihuly, whose work is included in more than 200 museum collections worldwide and is known for creating massive, surreal sculptures. Located next door to the Space Needle at the Seattle Center, the exhibit hall features eight galleries spanning Chihuly’s career. Some of the eye-popping displays include giant cascading chandeliers, huge underwater sealife displays, and rowboats overfilled with brightly colored glowing balls.

Outside, unusual glass formations accentuate a lush garden setting, including a 16-foot Sun which consists of hundreds of squiggly orange and yellow glass spires intertwined into a ball. The centerpiece of the museum is the Glass House, where a 100-foot-long flowery sculpture dangles from a glass ceiling.

A small theatre runs videos about the history of Dale Chihuly and how he learned the art of glass blowing. There’s also a café and gift shop. Admission is $19 for adults (12-16) and $17 for seniors (65+). (www.chihulygardenandglass.com)

Museum of Glass

You can’t really talk about glass art in Washington without also mentioning the Museum of Glass, located in downtown Tacoma, about 30 minutes south of Seattle. This long-standing museum presents cutting edge glass sculptures from artists all over the globe. The museum works to develop innovative, educational programming and allow visitors the opportunity to see the creative process at work. Take a seat in the Hot Shop Auditorium as residents and visiting artists create new pieces of artwork each day. In April, Tacoma will host the International Association of Mosaic Artists and a juried art show. In May, the museum will open a new exhibition “Links: Australian Glass in the Pacific Northwest” and the summer will be full of visiting artists from Australia in the Hot Shop.

Admission prices are $12 for adults and $10 for seniors (62+). (www.museumofglass.org)

Corning Glass Museum

This upstate New York museum is home to the world’s most comprehensive collection of glass, tracing 35 centuries of glassmaking history, artistry and technology. Located in the Finger LakesWine Region, the museum’s campus includes a yearround glassmaking school, live glassblowing demonstrations and make-your-own glass sessions. The glass making demos are narrated experiences designed to bring the artistry of glassmaking alive and to educate visitors about the properties of glass as a material. At the make-your-own glass sessions, little ones can decorate a sandblasted drinking glass, blow a holiday ornament or fuse a picture frame.

Older children and adults will enjoy forming a flower out of molten glass or flameworking a glass bead.

Starting May 18, a special exhibit called “Life on a String: 35 Centuries of the Glass Bead” will allow guests to have a complete experience of glass beads – learning the history and art of glass beads, seeing how glass beads are made in special flameworking demonstrations, and have the opportunity to make their own glass beads.

Adult admission is $15 and seniors (55+) are $12.75. Kids and teens receive free admission. (www.cmog.org)

Diablo Glass School

If you would like to try your hand at melting, mixing and blowing glass, there are plenty of glass studios sprinkled throughout the country that let you do just that. One of the best is the Diablo Glass School in Boston, which has been in business since 2001. The great thing about this school is that it has something for everyone -- adults, children and teens. There’s variety of one-day workshops, but if you would like a more in-depth experience, you can take your pick from workshops with three-sessions, four-sessions or 12-sessions. “Some of our most popular classes let students create their own paperweight or create their own drinking glass,” Executive Director Doris Martinez said. “We also do a lot of special holiday events such as at Christmas time. We have many families come back year after year to make their own Christmas ornaments.” These classes, however, are not cheap. The four-hour glass paperweight class costs $145, and the two-day Make-Your-Own Drinking Glass workshop will set you back $290, but there are less expensive options as well. As with all glass studios, be prepared to sit through a good dose of safety instructions before getting started. (www. diabloglassschool.com)

To learn what glass schools are available near you, visit the Glass Art Society at www.glassart.org. They have a complete listing of education programs listed for each state as well as countries around the world. Unfortunately, the listing is a bit buried. Start at the “Resources” link at the top of the page, then “Schools and Continuing Education” and lastly “Schools and Glass Workshops.” n

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$15/NIGHT MIDWEEK $250 OFF ANNUAL SITE VALID FOR ALL RESORTS FROM MAINE TO VIRGINIA VALID OPENING - 5/22/13 AND 9/4/13 - CLOSING* (EXCLUDES LAKE GEORGE ESCAPE AND LAKE & SHORE)

PA

$1500 FOR 6 MO STAY (May - October 2013)

LAKE GEORGE SCHROON VALLEY RESORT, WARRENSBURG, NY Mt. Desert Narrows, bar harbor, ME Narrows Too, trenton, ME Patten Pond, ellsworth, ME Sandy Beach, contoocook, NH tuxbury pond, south hampton, NH

$199/WEEK SUN-THURS MIDWEEK SPECIAL 1/2 PRICE ON ALL SITE TYPES (May 1 - June 15 or September 6 - Closing)

LAKE GEORGE ESCAPE, LAKE GEORGE, NY

6 WEEK STAY FOR ONE LOW PRICE

(May 1 - June 15 or September 6 - Closing)

$299 FOR 6 WEEK STAY LAKE GEORGE SCHROON VALLEY RESORT, WARRENSBURG, NY

$399 FOR 6 WEEK STAY

BRENNAN BEACH, PULASKI, NY ROBIN HILL, LENHARTSVILLE, PA RONDOUT VALLEY, ACCORD, NY Sandy Beach, contoocook, NH SUN VALLEY, BOWMANSVILLE, PA tuxbury pond, south hampton, NH

$499 FOR 6 WEEK STAY ALPINE LAKE RV RESORT, CORINTH, NY LAKE GEORGE ESCAPE, lake george, NY Mt. Desert Narrows, bar harbor, ME Narrows Too, trenton, ME Patten Pond, ellsworth, ME SPRING GULCH, NEW HOLLAND, PA

$500 OFF ANNUAL SITES

APPALACHIAN, SHARTLESVILLE, PA LAKE GEORGE ESCAPE, LAKE GEORGE, NY ROBIN HILL, LENHARTSVILLE, PA (Valid for first time annuals)

*Subject to availability. Reservations required. Rates based on a standard site. Stays of 30 days or less are subject to $3 per day resort fee. Electric not included for stays of 30 days or longer. Rates do not include taxes. Amenities vary by resort. Cannot be combined with any other offers or promotions.

Rates exclusively for members of Thousand Trails, NACO, Mid-Atlantic, Leisure Time and Outdoor World. Offer not valid on holidays and special events; certain restrictions may apply. Two week maximum stay per resort at discounted rate.

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APRIL 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

MEMBER DEALS

WI

MIDWEST

wisconsin illinois & indiana $299 FOR 6 WEEK STAY INDIAN LAKES, BATESVILLE, IN yukon trails, lyndon station, WI

IL

IN

(May 1 - June 15 or September 6 - Closing)

$399 FOR 4 WEEK STAY

TWIN MILLS, HOWE, IN tranquil timbers, sturgeon BAY, WI FREMONT JELLYSTONE PARK, FREMONT, IL (May 1 - June 15 or September 6 - Closing)

$499 FOR 4 WEEK STAY O’CONNELL’S YOGI BEAR JELLYSTONE PARK, AMBOY, IL ARROWHEAD, WISCONSIN DELLS, WI

Tuxbury Pond SOUTH HAMPTO

N, NH

(May 1 - June 15 or September 6 - Closing)

Relax along the beautiful shores of Tuxbury Pond, lounge by our pools, and enjoy a variety of fun-filled activities and events!

WWW.RVONTHEGO.COM

1-888-443-7301

*Subject to availability. Reservations required. Rates based on a standard site. Stays of 30 days or less are subject to $3 per day resort fee. Electric not included for stays of 30 days or longer. Rates do not include taxes. Amenities vary by resort. Cannot be combined with any other offers or promotions. Rates exclusively for members of Thousand Trails, NACO, Mid-Atlantic, Leisure Time and Outdoor World. Offer not valid on holidays and special events; certain restrictions may apply. Two week maximum stay per resort at discounted rate.

CIRCLE NO. 104 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

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CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Reader Service

Free Product Information For product information, complete the Fast Facts card circling no more than 25 numbers, and drop in the mail. You can also visit our website www.trailblazermagazine. net for links to our advertisers’ websites.

FF# Advertiser

Page

121 The Bradford Exchange............. 27 116 Carefree RV Resorts.................. 61 106 DirectSat TV.............................. 64 104 Equity LifeStyle................... 44-49 164 FirstStreet Best Selling.............. 19 160 FirstStreet Walk-In Tub ............ 31 132 GEICO....................................... 67 137 MyRVMarket.com..................... 42 128 SkyMed..................................... 68

Answers on page 64

ACROSS 1 Sleeping 5 New Mexico art colony 9 S.A. sloths 12 Womb (pref.)

13 Ancient Gr. contest 14 Recombinant letters 15 King Atahualpa 16 Taro root 17 Grease 18 Stinging insect 20 Biblical mountain 22 Globe 25 Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (abbr.)

27 To be announced (abbr.)

28 Council for Econ. Advisors (abbr.)

29 S. Afr. dialect 31 To be (Fr.) 34 Roofing material 35 Circuit 37 Hawaiian frigate bird 38 Dawn love song 40 Duration 41 Observation (abbr.)

42 Appendage 44 Drug Enforcement Admin. (abbr.)

45 Capture 46 Nab 49 Tender loving care (abbr.)

51 Fr. medieval tale 52 Moselle tributary 54 Berne’s river 58 ___ pro nobis 59 Occasional 50

APRIL 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

60 Lady’s title 61 Indite 62 Plumlike fruit 63 Mississippi bridge DOWN 1 Male friend (Fr.) 2 Son of, in Hebrew names 3 List-ending abbreviation 4 Thick fabric 5 Side (2 words) 6 Oriental potentate 7 Girlfriend of Alley Oop 8 Animal sound 9 Veneration 10 Occipital protuberances 11 Sodium chloride 19 Outer (pref.)

21 Presidential nickname 22 Eight (pref.)

23 Substantial 24 Boor 26 Enthusiastic 30 Teil (2 words) 32 Garment 33 Asia 36 Blue-green 39 One hundred square meters 43 Monsieurs (abbr.)

46 Drooping 47 Uncommon 48 Afrikaans 50 Window lead 53 Orinoco tributary 55 Amer. Automobile Assn. (abbr.)

56 Energy unit

124 Winnebago................................... 2

Answers on page 64

RETAILER DISCOUNTS

T

housand Trails has partnered with a number of popular brands to provide you with exclusive members-only savings. Below you will find our latest special offers available to you. Please log into the member section of the Thousand Trails website at www.ThousandTrails.com to take advantage of these great deals!

Exclusive iDine Savings Simply register any credit or debit card and dine at a restaurant on the program.

Afterwards, complete a quick dining review about your experience within 30 days.

The more you dine, the higher the percentage you can earn, up to 15%! Visit: www.idine.com/trailblazer for details and to enroll.

Rand McNally The first GPS designed specifically for RVers. Special member discount. Thousand Trails is offering our members a special discount offer on all Rand McNally RVND GPS products. Visit www.randmcnally.com/ELS for more information.

NationalPetPharmacy.com Trusted by veterinarians and pet lovers alike, NationalPetPharmacy.com is fully licensed and Vet-VIPPS certified for safety as well as quality. Our FDA/EPA approved pet meds are the same ones you get from your vet – but conveniently delivered to your door. Thousand Trails members save $5 on a $20 order with Discount Code: BLAZER5

PetFoodDirect.com 15% off your order of $49 or more. Get all your pet’s food and supplies delivered to your door with PetFoodDirect.com’s Auto Ship program. It’s the easiest way to shop for all the top brands of pet food (137 brands and counting!), flea & tick preventatives, treats, toys, cat litter, crates, collars, beds, bowls, pet meds, and so much more (16,000 top-quality pet products in all)! (This coupon is valid on everything in our store, except: vet diet foods, prescription and free shipping items, and gift certificates. One time use per customer. Only one promotion code can be applied per order. Not for use with any loyalty or other reward websites.)

Discount Code: BLAZER15

MyRVMarket.com RV Parts, Accessories and TT Gear 10% off all your purchases for the first year! Get all of your RV supplies and Lifestyle products all in one great store at an affordable price. We look to make your RV experience the best it can be. That’s why we offer great products at great prices delivered to your doorstep. Sign in as a Travelers Club Member and get additional savings with travel and special promotions all year.

MyRVMarket is the Exclusive Distributor of the powerful and environmentally safe Nature-Zyme products. Join the Travelers Club today at MyRVMarket.com and see what’s in it for you!

MEMBER DEALS

Exclusive Hertz Program When you rent with Hertz, you can take advantage of special year-round savings through the Hertz Membership Benefits Program. By using the Thousand Trails discount code, you can save whether you reserve online or by phone.

TCI Thousand Trails members receive discounts on Michelin tires through the Equity LifeStyle Properties Advantage program currently in place with TCI. TT members should call 1-888-532-6435 and reference the Equity Advantage program to receive discounts.

APRIL 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

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YOUR TECH QUESTIONS, ANSWERED!

Q:

“

„

I AM NEW TO RVING AND I HAVE TWO ...

... questions. 1) Do I need to lube my slide out rails? I am not having any problem but I didn’t know if this was suggested; and 2) Should I oil or grease the king pin or my hitch where they meet? If so, what do I use?

Thanks, Bill.

MaryAnn Shot Browns Valley, CA

A: Welcome, MaryAnn! And thank you for your inquires that tell me you care about proper care and maintenance.

You are well on your way to enjoying a wonderful RV experience. The answer to your first question is most modern RVs do not require the slide out mechanisms to be lubed. Check your owner’s manual or the RV manufacturer to see if, in fact, this is a suggested item of service. You won’t want to use any heavy oil or grease as they can attract dirt and dust that then cause other problems. When I have needed to lube a slide out rail, I only used a spray dry lube. The answer to your second questions is yes. The king pin absolutely requires lubrication of some kind as the metal-to-metal friction would eventually destroy the surface. Grease is rather messy so I recommend that you buy a lube disc that attaches permanently to the king pin. This lube disc will eliminate the need for grease or anything else. A standard lube disc comes in a 10-inch size. Generally, you can find the size you need by providing your RV service shop with the size and model of your fifth wheel.

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APRIL 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

Q:

“

MR. RV BILL, I HAVE A 2000 WINNEBAGO ...

„

... Adventurer and I am having constant issues with my cable operated dump valves. It was suggested that I replace them with electric dump valves, as the standard pull valves are not an option. Do you recommend a specific manufacturer over another? Any other thoughts on this topic would be appreciated.

Thank You, Tom Elliot Flint, MI

A: Tom, I feel your pain. Cable operated dump valves are a challenge, especially if they are not installed properly to begin with. I have installed many dump valves over the years and I much prefer Drain Master’s 12-volt dump valves. The only drawback is that they need to be installed/mounted between the 10 o’clock and the 2 o’clock position in the place of the existing valves, which is not always possible because of an obstruction.

I’ve used them on my own rig and loved them. If they will fit on yours, I am sure you will be more than happy as well. There is an add-on for conventional pull dump valves called “Auto Drain” which will bolt directly to your existing valve converting them to electric. It is possible to install these on your Winnebago, although I have never tried them personally. Another possibility would be having your cable valves replaced, being certain that they are installed correctly. Best of luck and thanks for your question.

Q:

“

„

MY WIFE AND I ENJOYED MEETING YOU ...

... and Jenn at Medina Lake this past November. Thanks for all your help with our 2010 Carriage Cameo fifth wheel! Here is another question I have for you, RV Bill.

I drained my water heater as I normally do whenever I put it into storage for several months. When I took it out of storage, I added water to my system making sure that the water heater was full. I turned on the electric switch located in the galley as I normally do and a few hours later, I noticed there was no hot water. I immediately checked all the breakers and the on/off switch inside the access door. The switch was stuck in the “on” position.

With a little WD-40 I was able to make the switch rock back and forth again. I thought that my trouble might be the electric heating element so I replaced it and still, no hot water. Now, I am not sure what to do…help?!

Ciro Livingston, TX

A: Hi, Friends! I am glad to help you again. I have seen rocker switches become stuck in one position many times over the years - especially when they are not used on a regular basis. It seems as though once this occurs, and then the switch is loosened back up again, the switch still doesn’t function electrically any longer. You will need an AC volt meter to best track down the problem. Remove the cover to the re-set buttons and the electric heating element that is located in the outside access door where your on/off switch is. Use the volt meter to determine if you have 120-volts AC across the white and black wires that lead to the electric element. If there is no voltage, check between the white wire and the electric element and the black wire on the re-set buttons for 120-volt. Be sure to check both sides of the ECO and the thermostat for 120-volts. If there is voltage to only one of the wires running to the ECO and t-stat, that would determine the problem. If there is not voltage, you will need to remove the on/off switch with a large flat-bladed screwdriver and test for voltage between both sides of the switch and the white wire (common wire). I suspect that there is only voltage to only one side of the switch and that is the issue taking place. As you can see, it’s just a matter of tracing the voltage from A to B, to C. Thanks for your question and I hope it solves the problem. Be well!

Q:

“

„

BILL, I AM IN THE PROCESS OF ORDERING A NEW ...

... anode rod via the Internet for my Suburban water heater. I am a bit confused as there are several different types and lengths available to choose from. I have the length figured out, but do I purchase an aluminum or magnesium rod?

Thanks so much, Buster and Sky Williams Wildwood, FL

A: This is a great question and smart thinking to be doing your own annual water heater maintenance! While draining and flushing the water heater every year, you should replace the anode rod if it looks pretty well eaten up by corrosion. The anode rod is the “sacrificial lamb” of the water heater and Suburban uses a magnesium rod for its longer lasting and more effective properties.

I would suggest you continue using the magnesium rod as well for the same reasons. ■

GOT A QUESTION FOR BILL? SEND AN EMAIL TO

AskRVBill@equitylifestyle.com Bill Gehr The back of our RV reads, “We haven’t been everywhere, but it’s on our list!” After owning and operating Bill’s RV Service in Ventura, CA for 34 years, Bill Gehr and his wife, Jenn, are now living the dream of the full-time RV lifestyle. Bill is a Master RV Technician and has starred in the DVD series The ABC’s of RVs, and RV Today on RFDTV. As a team, Bill and Jenn Gehr are technical contributors for a myriad of RV magazines and travel the USA with their two Boston Bulldogs and are avid cyclists and hikers.

APRIL 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

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Preserve Services Directory* | April 2013 PRESERVE SERVICES DIRECTORY

NORTHWEST OREGON BEND/SUNRIVER | 541-593-8494 Annual/Extended Stay - We still have some open sites available for annual use. Stop worrying about space available in beautiful Bend/Sunriver with your own site and come and enjoy all we have to offer year-round. From skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling in the winter to fishing, hiking and festivals in the summer. Please call Bobbie or Julie at the Preserve.

WHALERS REST 541-867-6078 (Preserve Office) 541-867-3100 (Storage) Annual/Extended Stay - Enjoy the beautiful Oregon Coast on your own personal site at Whalers Rest. Leave your rig year-round and occupy up to 210 days per year. Don’t have an RV or want a “vacation home”? We have former vacation rental trailers available for purchase and placement in the personal site program. Call Denise or Shari at the preserve for more information.

Short-Term Rental - Cabins, cottages and yurts available for rent year-round, call for quote.

Special Events - Beautiful setting on the central Oregon coast, 18 rental units, including two new cabins and a very large garden home. Large meeting area and kitchen facilities. Parties and meetings of all sizes. Call preserve for details.

SuperHost not available June 15-Sept. 15.

Special Events - Perfect location for your family reunions, rallies and birthday picnics. Packages are available for renting our winter lodge for that special birthday. The main lodge is available for weddings, banquets and conferences.

We also welcome ski clubs and snowmobile clubs. Call Anne or send email to besh@equitylifestyle.com.

PACIFIC CITY 503-965-6200 (Preserve Office) 503-965-6442 (Ranger Station) Annual/Extended Stay - No longer a need to move your RV off-site for 1-3 years, plus the flexibility to occupy the unit up to 210 nights without contract use restrictions and then stay longer with reservations. Decorate your preferred site or add a storage shed if desired. Order your new Cavco Cedar Cabin and custom design the interior, select your preferred campsite and schedule delivery. Financing available. Contact Ginny to make an appointment.

Short-Term Rental - Rental Cabins available for monthly discount stays.

Sunday-Thursday mid week savings. Contact Resort Manager for details.

Special Events - Awesome coastal weather, beach access, clamming, crabbing, beach-combing, professional and friendly service, campsites, rental units and gazebo. We host parties, club rallies, reunions, weddings and retreats for all group outings. A group consists of 4 or more campsites/rentals or any combination thereof. Contact the preserve for more information.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Save on gas and take advantage of our RV storage program. $50 for 4 weeks, $300 for 26 weeks or $550 for 52 weeks. Dry storage space is limited. New enhanced dry storage with electric hook up features.

SEASIDE 503-738-0626 (Preserve Office) 503-738-5292 (Rentals) Annual/Extended Stay - The Oregon Coast! Enjoy your own personal site for your RV. Home base for full-timers, improved landscape options available, personalize your site – add a storage shed and/or deck. You no longer need to move your RV. Call Christopher or Barry at the preserve.

Short-Term Rental - Discounted short-term rentals available for two week and monthly stays. Great rates for Monday-Thursday mid-week stays. Call for our current specials. Our cabins are available all year long.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry storage for $60 per month. Get two free months with our yearly rate of $600.

SOUTH JETTY 541-997-8296 (Preserve Office) 541-997-8333 (Rentals) Annual/Extended Stay - Extended Stay program now available. Use it any 210 days and store your rig year-round. Contact Preserve Manager for details.

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WASHINGTON BIRCH BAY | 360-371-7432 Annual/Extended Stay - Play by the bay longer with stays beyond your membership days and enjoy the sun, not the grays, at Birch Bay. Space may still be available for your Personal Site. Purchase a vacation home, while they last, or bring your own. Monthly stays limited and also available at just $450 month, plus utilities. Come experience the beauty of the true Northwest. Contract Chandra at the preserve.

CHEHALIS | 360-262-9489 Annual/Extended Stay - Enjoy your own year-round private site in beautiful Chehalis. There’s no need to move your RV off-site. You can occupy your site for 210 days without reservations and then stay longer with reservations. Contract Brenda Roza for an appointment.

Short-Term Rental - We have monthly rentals for 1-4 months for $475 per month, plus utilities. We also have rental cabins and trailers offering daily and weekly rates.

Special Events - Perfect venue for your family reunion, church campout, picnic, party, school event or retreat. Rental units, RV sites, picnic areas, catering, day-use activities and amenities can be all yours with our SuperHost program. Our lodge is available off-season for weddings, banquets, parties, retreats, or conferences. Call preserve or send email chba@equitylifestyle.com.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Storage: $45 per month or $180 for 6 months. Call Ranger Don. GRANDY CREEK | 360-826-3554 Annual/Extended Stay - Annual site available! $1,950; please call the preserve for details.

Short-Term Rental - Monthly sites available. Call preserve for details.

On-Site/Dry Storage - $40 per month, space is limited.

LA CONNER | 360-466-3112 Annual/Extended Stay - Your very own site on our beautiful resort is waiting for you. Spend your free time on the Skagit Bay, walking on the beach, photographing the resident Bald Eagles, and relaxing in our spa. We have limited sites available so hurry. Our Annual Program now has 210-day usage.

Please call Nancy or Matthew at the preserve.

Short-Term Rental - Leave your RV at home and come stay in our comfortable Panabode Cedar Cabins. Full kitchen, sleeps 6. Call preserve to make reservations. Please call Nancy or Matthew at the preserve.

Short-Term Rental - Yurts, cabins and trailers available to fit your budget.

LEAVENWORTH 509-763-2020 | 800-353-1700

APRIL 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

*Information subject to change

LITTLE DIAMOND | 800-994-6654 Special Events - Granite Lodge: Two full kitchens, dining for large groups, sleeps 20+, adjacent RV and tent sites, spa and sauna, satellite TV. Contact preserve for more information.

LONG BEACH | 360-642-3091 Annual/Extended Stay - Long Beach is only minutes away from the grand Pacific Ocean, surrounded by gorgeous nature and a rich history of pioneers past. Don’t miss out on your chance to have your own place at the beach. You can have your own personal RV site where your rig can stay year-round and you can occupy your rig for 210 days out of that year for the low price of $2,100! No more hassle storing your rig and just think of all the money you will save on gas.

We are also introducing a special 3-month rate during the off-season; stay 3 months for only $350 per month or $425 per month during the off season. Call Kate at the preserve for details.

Short-Term Rental - Feel at home in one of our Vacation Trailers or lovely Thousand Trails Cabins both with fully stocked kitchens. Call the preserve for rates or make your reservations online.

Special Events - Planning a reunion, wedding, special event or a trip with a bunch of friends and family? Long Beach is the place for you! We have plenty of RV and tent sites as well as cabins and trailers available for rent. We are right off the beach and close to historic downtown Long Beach. For more information, call Kate at the Preserve Office.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Save on gas with our dry storage sites. Available yearround at the low price of $50 a month or get two months free when you sign up for a year for only $500. Call the Preserve Office for details.

MT. VERNON | 360-724-4811 Annual/Extended Stay - Come enjoy our preserve with beautiful forest settings and views of the mountains where wildlife parade through. Relax in your own personal site now up to 210 days. Walk the trails or relax in the large swimming pool and spa. Please call Kelly King at the preserve to get your site.

OCEANA | 360-289-3504 Annual/Extended Stay - New Reduced Prices! Walk down to the beach for some quiet time away from all the hustle and bustle. Park your RV 12 months at Oceana. Stay up to 210 days a year with no time out. For the BEST PRICE on the WA coast for a full hook-up site with 50-amp power call Dale Graham at the preserve.

Short-Term Rental - A limited number of sites are available starting at $350 per month, plus elec. for next summer season. Call Dale Graham at the preserve.

On-Site/Dry Storage - RV Storage $40 per month without electric (dry) or $50 per month with electric (limited sites with electricity and may be subject to availability).

PARADISE 360-985-2121 (Preserve Office) 360-985-2756 (Ranger Station) Annual/Extended Stay - Save on fuel, extend your stay at Paradise for $550 per month, or consider leaving your rig year-round with an annual lease. Call the preserve for more information.

On-Site/Dry Storage - RV Storage $40 per month without electric (dry) or $50 per month with electric (limited sites with electricity and may be subject to availability).

THUNDERBIRD 360-794-4030 (Preserve Office) 360-794-8987 (Ranger Station) Annual/Extended Stay - We are now open year-round and have Annual Sites available. Come stay with us and explore the beautiful state of Washington. We also offer the Extended Stay Program at $575 per month, plus $35 electric fee.

If interested, please call the Preserve Office.

PRESERVE SERVICES DIRECTORY

Short-Term Rental - A snowmobiler’s paradise, we receive an average of 10 feet of snow annualyl. Just across from our preserve we have access to over 200 miles of snowmobile trails. We have rentals that include a Log House that sleeps 24, a Chalet that sleeps 8, four cabins that sleep 4 to 5 and four lodge rooms that sleep four, plus our RV sites In our Timber View and Lake View areas.

Short-Term Rental - Four (4) TT Rental Cabins available. For special offseason rates, please call the Preserve Office.

On-Site/Dry Storage - RV Storage for $2.50 per day or $75 per month. Call the Preserve Office.

BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA CULTUS LAKE | 604-858-3932 Annual/Extended Stay - We have both Standard and Value Annual Personal Sites available. From October 1-March31, each winter season, we offer month to month stays (not to exceed three (3) months at a time). If you are interested, contact Norman or Lisa at the Preserve Office.

On-Site/Dry Storage - During the months of October to March each year we offer storage on our non-water sites at a daily, weekly, monthly or six-month rate. Check with the Preserve Office or Ranger Station if you’re interested.

SOUTHWEST ARIZONA VERDE VALLEY | 928-634-8158 Annual/Extended Stay - Extend your stay with us for $99 a week plus tax.

Extend by the month on a 30-amp for $350 or 50-amp for $425, plus electric.

Annual sites start at $2,500 per year. Pick a lease package where you can stay 365 nights-Best Deal. For more information regarding our Extended Stay and Annual Lease programs, contact Scott Woolley at the preserve.

Short-Term Rental - 29-foot trailers for $595 per month (includes electric).

Cabins $1,000-1,250 per month (includes electric). Weekly housekeeping and linens, TV/VCR, satellite. Pet and non-pet units available. Call the preserve to reserve your unit.

Dry Storage - Dry Storage available w/o electric for $50 per month or $425 per year, with electric for $90 per month or $775 per year. Call the preserve for details.

CALIFORNIA IDYLLWILD 951-659-4097 (Preserve Office) 951-659-4137 (Ranger Station) 951-659-0698 (Recreation Office) Annual/Extended Stay - Annual lease as low as $2,195 per year (not including electricity). Keep your trailer/rig or motorhome on a site for 365 days per year! Please contact Preserve Manager for more details.

Short-Term Rental - Stay in the preserve on a month-to-month basis for as low as $575 per month, including water and electricity. We also have rental cabins!! Daily, weekly and by the month. Please contact the Preserve Manager at for more information.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage available for as little as $75 per month or $650 per year. Please contact the Preserve Office for more information on terms and conditions.

LAKE MINDEN 530-656-2701 (Preserve Office) 530-656-2702 (Special Events) 530-656-2700 (Storage) Annual/Extended Stay - Variety of sites available – 1-3 year leases, sewered APRIL 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

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and non-sewered sites; utilities not included. Snowbird Program: $425 per month, plus electric, includes one honeywagon dump per week. Call the preserve for more information.

PRESERVE SERVICES DIRECTORY

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage: Quarterly for $120. Call the preserve for information LAKE OF THE SPRINGS | 530-692-1852 Annual/Extended Stay - Have your own personal site waiting for you. Call Renee for more information at (530) 692-3212. We also have sites available on a monthly basis, call (530) 692-1852.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Call Kathy at the preserve for information.

RANCHO OSO | 805-683-5686 Annual/Extended Stay - Monthly RV sites $749, plus electricity.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Why haul your rig back and forth? We have dry storage for $50 per month. If you pay for one year, you get one month free. Call (530) 692-1852.

Short-Term Rental - Check out our new reduced rates for our 29 and 30-foot trailers.

MORGAN HILL 408-779-6396 (Preserve Office) 408-779-4932 (SuperHost) Annual/Extended Stay - Call the preserve to get the details on the best prices in the area for full hook-up and partial hook-up sites for stays up to 210 days in a year.

OAKZANITA 619-445-2835 (Preserve Office) 619-445-2515 (Ranger Station) Annual/Extended Stay - Gas prices got you down? Hate the hassle of setting up and taking down your RV? If you like to escape the hustle and bustle of your life then we have the program for you. You can have your own personal site and you can leave your rig 365 days a year, you can occupy your rig for up to 210 days a year. We offer a limited number of annual sites and due to gas prices they fill up fast. Call Sheila or Cheryl at the preserve for more information.

Short-Term Rental - We offer rental cabins you can stay for the night or by the week. Call the preserve for prices. We also have a limited number of horse corrals available by the day or week. Call the preserve.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry storage for only $450 per year, $65 per month or $40 per week. Call the Ranger Station for more information.

PALM SPRINGS | 760-345-1682 Annual/Extended Stay - Rally groups welcome September through November and April through May. The preserve offers many activities, such as water aerobics, water volleyball, horseshoe pits, pickleball courts and a billiards room. Call the preserve for information.

PIO PICO | 619-421-0104 Annual/Extended Stay - Are you tired of moving from park to park every 2-3 weeks? Or moving your RV in and out of storage? Get your own personal site and leave your RV there all year long. Contact Dave D. at Preserve Office.

Short-Term Rental - Are you going on vacation? We have Vacation Rental Trailers and cabins available for short-term stays. For more details please call the preserve.

Special Events - Are you planning a group event, family reunion or sports banquet?

We can accommodate all group sizes. Call preserve office to schedule event.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Call Frank at x102 for more details and specials information.

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Special Events - Plan your next special event with us along the beautiful American River. We can help you host up to 150 guests for your wedding, family reunion, rally, or other special event function. Make your event one to remember – host it at Ponderosa Resort! Call the preserve for more information.

Special Events - Have your group gathering with us! Campsite and rental units are available. Call (530) 692-1852.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage: $85 per month and $792 per year. Call the preserve for more details.

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PONDEROSA | 530-642-5830 Annual/Extended Stay - Sign up for our new Annual Site program. Make a site yours for an entire year or up to 3 years! Eliminate storage costs and the hassle of moving your rig. Call Dominic at the preserve.

APRIL 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

Special Events - Reunions, youth groups, picnics, retreats, meetings. Private Chapel/Pavilion and courtyard available for events. Stay in cozy cabins, covered wagons or our full amenity kitchenette campers. Call the preserve for details.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage: $75 per month or $750 per year and save $150. Call the preserve for information.

RUSSIAN RIVER 707-894-5321 (Preserve Office) 707-894-5355 (Special Events) Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites are still available - only a couple left.

Extended Stay $400 per month, plus electric; includes one honeywagon dump per week. For more information call the preserve.

SAN BENITO 831-389-4477 (Ranger Station) 831-389-4478 (Special Events) Annual/Extended Stay - Both programs are available. We also have Getaway Cabins and other cabins and vacation trailers all for the asking. Give us a call and see when we can fit you in. We also have space available for the public and we have tent sites too. For any questions, contact our Ranger Station.

Special Events - If you’re looking for that great place for family gatherings, youth groups, reunions, meetings, retreats, church gatherings or just your very own special event, such as birthdays or anniversaries, contact Teri and we can get you on your way. So come and enjoy the natural beauty of San Benito.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Call Ranger Station for details.

SNOWFLOWER | 530-389-8241 Annual/Extended Stay - Have a favorite camping area or site you prefer?

Reserve a personal seasonal site anywhere in the preserve for only $388 per month. Seasonal sites available from May through October, weather permitting.

Short-Term Rental - Try something new and stay in one of our cabins or yurts!

Cabins sleep four maximum and start at $71.20 per night mid-week, plus tax; yurts sleep 4-5 and start at $44 per night mid-week, plus tax. Cabins and Yurts are only a short drive to exploring California’s historic Gold Country or gaming and nightlife In Reno, NV. The yurts have heaters and new mini-fridges for your convenience. Call preserve for information.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Storage sites available starting at $8 per day to $75 per month. Call the Ranger Station to check availability.

SOLEDAD CANYON 661-269-1740 (Preserve Office) 661-269-7038 (Special Events) Special Events - Have your rally, wedding, picnic, retreat or reunion at our beautiful preserve. Catering for up to 3,000 available. Call the preserve for information.

On-Site/Dry Storage - On-site storage no longer available. Dry Storage $75 per month or $750 annual. Call the preserve for information.

WILDERNESS LAKES 951-672-4831 (Preserve Office) 951-672-7804 (Special Events/SuperHost) Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available. Fish from the back of your site! No reservations required. You can leave your RV on-site 365 days per year.

You may occupy the site 210 days per year. Call Brandie or Dave at the preserve for more information.

NEVADA LAS VEGAS 702-451-2719 (Preserve Office) 800-288-7245 (Rentals) 702-451-4647 (Storage) Annual/Extended Stay - Come HOME to your own private site in FUN City.

Year-round sites available in four price ranges. Extended Stay monthly sites available from $475 per month. Call preserve for details.

Short-Term Rental - Make your cabin and trailer reservations early; high demand in fall, winter and spring. Call the Rental Office for information.

MIDWEST/NORTHEAST ILLINOIS PINE COUNTRY 815-547-5517 (Preserve & Marketing Office) Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available - rates $2,044. Monthly site rental (RV) - $425 per month. We offer weekly and mid-week special rates also.

Call preserve for details.

Short-Term Rental - Public W/E/S - nightly rate - $43. Tent sites - nightly $28.

Special Events - Large and small pavilion available for rental - must reserve.

Clubhouse space available for rental - must reserve.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Yearly storage rates $350.

INDIANA INDIAN LAKES 812-934-5496 (Preserve & Marketing Office) Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Sites starting at just $1,200. Please call Charlene.

On-Site/Dry Storage - RV storage available starting at $35 per month.

Quarterly, semi-annual, and annual rates available. Call Charlene at the preserve.

HORSESHOE LAKES | 765-832-2487 Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Lease Sites are $1,500 for lakefront and $1,075 for non-lakefront.

Short-Term Rental - We have 126 sites available (122 full hook-up, and 25 50-amp sites - 50-amp sites are $3 per night).

Special Events - RV sites, meeting/banquet room, kitchen available for reunions, parties, church groups, weddings, etc.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry storage available starting at $10 per week up to $300 annually.

MAINE MOODY BEACH | 207-646-4586

PRESERVE SERVICES DIRECTORY

TURTLE BEACH | 209-239-0991 On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry storage available for $20 per week or $60 per month.

Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Sites Available: Premium $2882, plus electric fee; Elite $3542, plus electric fee; membership required. Great sites still available. Close to sandy beaches, attractive, Portland ME and Portsmouth NH. Annual Cottages Available: 28’x12’ park models, sleeps 4 adults and 2 children, complete kitchen and bath, supplies. Own your own cottage to come to all season! Annual site fee required. Prices vary - contact manager for more information. Extended Stay Available: $535 per month - April, May, June September, October. Extended Stay available for 1000 per month - July and August. Call Country Store for more information.

Short-Term Rental - April 15-June 10 and September 5 to closing (Oct. 20).

Spring or Fall - Shoulder Seasons, get away for a weekend or a week at Moody Beach. Call Country Store for special or look us up on line at www.1000trails. com.

Special Events - Moody Beach Is a great getaway for your group. Rallies and Reunions. Safari Field available. Contact us to book your group or party.

On-Site/Dry Storage - $4 per day, $25 per week, $45 per month or $375 per year. Valid insurance and agreement required.

MASSACHUSETTS GATEWAY TO CAPE COD | 508-763-5911 Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available for $2300. Vacation cottages for sale starting at $2500, plus site fee of $2400. Please call preserve for details.

Short-Term Rental - Park Model rentals available starting at $60 per night (some pet units available). Call the preserve for more information and reservations.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage available $46 per month or $360 per year. Call the preserve or inquire at the Trading Post.

STURBRIDGE | 508-347-7156 Annual/Extended Stay - Annuals from $1740 to $2666 for lakeside and, new this year, seasonal sites for spring and fall for $500.

Short-Term Rental - Five rental units available with nightly and weekly rates, 10 people per site. All you bring is linen and food. Amenities are free.

Special Events - We have a beautiful conference center for all occasions nestled in beautiful Sturbridge.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Off-site Storage: $20 per week; $45 per month; or $350 per year.

MICHIGAN BEAR CAVE | 269-695-3050 Annual/Extended Stay - You are invited to stay at a former Potawatomi Indian Village. Stay and fish on the St. Joseph River from your annual site for $1820. Choose a premium site for $2080. Your site, your way!

Short-Term Rental - 1 and 2 bedroom park model rentals for $59 and $69 per night; 2-night minimum stay on weekends and 3-night minimum stay on holiday weekends. Linen rental for additional fee. 2-4 person, fully-equipped tent rentals available. Call for details.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Save on gas and leave your trailer in storage for only $30 per month.

ST. CLAIR | 810-329-7129 Annual/Extended Stay - Beautiful sites, concrete pad and patio, paved road, metered 50-amp electric, water and sewer. Stay up to 180 nights and store your rig the rest of the year. $2,000 per year. Similar new sites with gravel pads and roads are only $1,500 per year. Contact Preserve Manager for details.

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NEW JERSEY CHESTNUT LAKE | 609-652-1005 Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Sites starting at $1,599; Monthly Sites from $500.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Storage for $25 per week; $50 per month or $400 per year.

LAKE & SHORE | 609-624-1494 Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites for 2013. Limited availability - $4,630 per year, three year site agreement. Cottages for sale at reasonable rates.

SEA PINES Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Sites available, starting at $2895.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry storage available for $20 weekly, $50 per month or $400 per year.

HERSHEY 717-867-1891 (Preserve Office) 717-867-3967 (Storage) Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Sites available at beautiful Hershey Preserve starting at $2,600. Call Kim at the preserve.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage Rates: $20 weekly, $50 monthly, $200 for six months or $375 per year. Call or stop by the Country Store during regular hours.

PA DUTCH COUNTRY | 717-665-2500 Annual/Extended Stay - Annual site available - standard sites for $1825, plus metered electricity. Premium sites for $2200, plus metered electricity. Vacation Cottage site fee for $2100 per year. For more information, please call Joanne or Joan at the preserve.

Special Events - Open air pavilion available to rent for special events.

Short-Term Rental - 14 cabins available for rent. Call the preserve for details.

On-Site/Dry Storage - November-April: $25 per month; April-October $45 per month or $396 for the year, if paid in full.

Special Events - Don’t worry about the weather – our large building is available for rent. Building will accommodate square dance groups inside; also available for weddings and other events. For more information, please call Joanne or Joan at the preserve.

Short-Term Rental - Elite site is $475 for a month-to-month and $425 per month for a standard site.

Special Events - Rustic Barn, Pool Pavilion available for Family Reunions, Superhosts, and Get-togethers. If interested, please contact Linda Roberts for more information.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage ONLY. Fees: $35 per month; $65 per quarter (yearly) $125 per 6 months; and $235 for one year.

WILMINGTON | 937-382-5883 Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available. Call preserve for details.

Special Events - SuperHost Facility Rental: Family Lodge $400; Pavilion $100.

Call preserve for more information.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage available - $40 per month or $150 for six (6) months. Call the Ranger Station.

PENNSYLVANIA CIRCLE M | 717-872-4651 Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Sites still available starting at $2,150.

Vacation cottages also available. Supply is limited. Contact Jamie at the preserve (ext. 12) for details.

Short-Term Rental - Short term site rental available. Contact Jamie at the preserve (ext. 12).

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage available. Contact Preserve Office (ext. 0) for details.

GETTYSBURG FARM | 717-292-7191 Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Sites available. Call Jeff at the preserve office for information.

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On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage Rates: $20 weekly, $50 monthly and $300 yearly. Call the preserve or stop by the Trading Post.

NEW YORK RONDOUT VALLEY | 845-626-5521 Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites start at $2,895; for other special, please call preserve.

OHIO KENISEE LAKE | 440-576-9030 Annual/Extended Stay - Lakefront and non-lakefront sites available. Please call the preserve for details.

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Special Events - Two pavilions are available for your reunion, company picnic, wedding or party. These creekside pavilions are a popular gathering spot for your special functions. Call Jeff or Mary at the preserve.

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On-Site/Dry Storage - Off-site Storage is available for $3 per day, $60 per month, and $375 per year. For more information, please call Joanne or Joan at the preserve.

SCOTRUN | 570-629-0620 Annual/Extended Stay - Scotrun, in the beautiful Pocono Mountains, has annual sites available starting at $1295. Scotrun is central to everything in the Poconos and easy access right off Route 80.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage Only - $400 per year or $50 per month.

Contact preserve for details.

TIMOTHY LAKE RESORT NORTH 570-588-6631 (In Season) 570-588-1617 (Off Season) Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available. Seasonal Location near beautiful Bushkill Falls and the Delaware Water Gap. Annual Sites are $2185 which includes 30-50 amp service, sewer and water with metered electric; paved roads throughout resort. Limited amount of Used Cottages for sale also.

Call resort directly.

Short-Term Rental - Rental Cabins available May 1-October 28.

Special Events - 150 Seat Indoor Entertainment Center for Events & Rental, Birthday Parties Packages, Seasonal Indoor Water Park also available for parties, Member Lounge with Televised Sporting Events including NFL Sunday Ticket.

On-Site/Dry Storage - $20 weekly, $65 monthly, and $390 annually.

TIMOTHY LAKE RESORT SOUTH 570-588-1617 (Year-round) Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available at a great year-round location near beautiful Shawnee Mountain and Bushkill Falls. Annual Sites are $2385 which includes large sites with 50-amp service, year-round sewer and water with metered electric, paved roads throughout and gated community. Includes 365 days of access with 230 days of usage to use as you want. Limited amount of used Cottages Available and New Cottage Sales. Call resort directly.

Short-Term Rental - Vacation cottages for sale at $4,495.

Special Events - RV Rallies & RV Clubs Welcome. Prices Range from $24.99$39.99 a night depending on size of group or rally. We are a Shawnee E-Ticket Center. Our guest can purchase tickets for all Winter Events and Summer Festivals and receive discounts for these events at the resort.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Storage available - $2 per day or $365 per year.

On-Site/Dry Storage - $20 weekly, $65 monthly, and $390 annually. Space is Limited!

SOUTHEAST ALABAMA HIDDEN COVE | 205-221-7042 Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available - $2,150. For information please call the preserve.

Short-Term Rental - Park Model Rentals $60 and $70 per night. For information, call the preserve.

Special Events - Our lakefront Clubhouse and Pavilion are the perfect venues for family reunions, receptions, birthday parties, company events, church picnics, etc. We also have RV sites, tent sites and cabins. For details please call the preserve.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage available for $3 per day or $200 for 6 months. Call preserve for information.

FLORIDA ORLANDO 352-394-5531 (Preserve Office) 352-394-7300 (Special Events) Annual/Extended Stay - Sites still available for extended stay and lease options. Leave your rig and not have to move every few weeks. Please call Beth-Ann McCourt for more details or ask for when you arrive at the preserve.

LAKE GASTON | 252-586-4121 Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available. Rates from $1,950. Call the preserve for details.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry storage available: $20 per week, $45 per month or $325 per year. Storage available for boats and RVs. For information, please call the preserve.

SOUTH CAROLINA CAROLINA LANDING | 864-972-9892 Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available starting at $1,300 for current members.

THE OAKS AT POINT SOUTH | 843-726-5728 Annual/Extended Stay - Come spend the season where it’s sunny at our beautiful spot close to Savannah, Charleston, and right next door to the historic Beaufort by the sea. Our rates are very reasonable - $350 per month plus tax and electric. Call the preserve and book now. Easy access to/from I-95.

On-Site/Dry Storage - We offer on-site storage at $150 per month, plus electric and taxes.

TENNESSEE CHEROKEE LANDING | 731-376-0935 Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available from $1,099 to $1,300 for the season for current members. Extended Stay sites are $300 for current members.

Call the preserve to make your reservations.

Short-Term Rental - We have campsites and rental cabins available. Call the preserve to make your reservations.

PEACE RIVER | 863-735-8888 Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites available for $2280 per year, plus tax and electric. Extended stay/seasonal sites are also available: November $350; December $375, January $410; February $425; March $410; April $375.

Discounts available for three months or more. Seasonal sites are 30-amp with water and electric. price includes one free honey wagon dump per week. Call Lee at the preserve for more details.

NATCHEZ TRACE | 931-796-3212 Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites still available - $1,020 to $1,380.

Short-Term Rental - We have nine rental log cabins available, for nightly or monthly rental.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry: $5 per day/$25 per month.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage $45 per month. Call the preserve for information.

THREE FLAGS | 352-748-3870 (Preserve Office) Short-Term Rental - Vacation cottages available for rent.

Special Events - We have a large clubhouse that may be rented out for special events.

NORTH CAROLINA FOREST LAKE | 336-998-4135 Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites are available! Don’t delay in securing yours now and start enjoying the convenience of annual site rental. Contact Preserve Office for current rate.

Short-Term Rental - Cabins, cottages and short-term rentals are available.

The longer you stay, the better the price! For rates and availability contact Barb Stanze at the Preserve Office.

GREEN MOUNTAIN PARK | 828-757-4088 Annual/Extended Stay - Rates are $1,400 to $2,855. Call preserve for details.

PRESERVE SERVICES DIRECTORY

Short-Term Rental - Rental Cabins available Year-round.

Short-Term Rental - Mid-week cabin stay special - $99 Monday through Thursday. Limited Availability. Standard Cabins only.

Special Events - Rallies Welcome! Large rental hall facilities available.

TEXAS BAY LANDING | 940-683-3016 Annual/Extended Stay - Bay Landing is now your personal site for 12 months. *Annual Stay – stay up to 210 days a year with no time out. Limited spaces available. Honey Runs every Monday, Wednesday and Friday for $10, plus tax. No need to move your rig, we come to you! Contact the Ranger Station before 2 p.m. to put your name on the list. Don’t cut your weekend short with towing and setup. Save on Gas. No pulling! Please call Lynn.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage Only - $45, plus tax ($48.04).

COLORADO RIVER | 979-732-8229 Annual/Extended Stay - Annual site leases available for part-time or fulltime occupancy. Suitable for RV or park models. Also offering Winter/Summer Texan extended stays for members and the public for up to 5 months at market rate, plus metered electricity. For pricing and details about Annual sites or 55+ programs, call Marty or send email at crmgr@equitylifestyle.com.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage available year-round; fenced secure area.

Call the preserve or send email coloradoriver_mgr@equitylifestyle.com.

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LAKE CONROE 936-856-7888 (Preserve Office) 936-856-3751 (Rental Office) Annual/Extended Stay - Come stay for a maximum of five months at a time on our Texan Program. The cost is $375 per month, plus electricity. We also have medical stays available. For details contact the Ranger. Our annual program allows you to stay up to 210 days and leave your rig onsite for the entire year.

Hidden Cove annual programs are available for 300 days. Contact the Preserve Office for details.

VIRGINIA CHESAPEAKE BAY 804-693-6951 (Resort Office) 804-693-9645 (Special Events) Annual/Extended Stay - Chesapeake Bay is the best place to spend weekends and vacation and our annual sites make it so easy to jump in the car and head to the “rivah”!

Contact Lisa in the Resort Office if you would like information on how you can lease a site in 2013.

Short-Term Rental - We have four cabins for rent nightly for two weeks at a time, for $80 for members, plus $10 extra for guests, plus tax, per night. We have nine Getaways for our Getaway members. We also have a Hidden Cove rental, which are owned by members and rented by the week or the month. Check with our Preserve Office for details. All rentals are fully furnished. You just need to bring clothes and food!

On-Site/Dry Storage - Field storage available year-round. On-site storage available Nov. 15-May 15. Call Resort Office for details.

Special Events - SuperHost/pavilion/family center/lake area rental available most weekends for parties and special events. Contact the Ranger Station at the preserve.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry storage is $35 per month, plus tax. Contact the Ranger Station. We also have short-term storage at $40 per week, plus tax, where you may store your RV and leave electric plugged in while you are out of the preserve.

LAKE TAWAKONI | 903-598-2800 Annual/Extended Stay - Standard and Premium sites are available. There are electric charges on both. These sites are for 210 days of usage. Marina and dry storage are available for boats.

Short-Term Rental - Two rental cabins available.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Monthly Dry Storage cost is $42.70.

LAKE TEXOMA 903-523-5835 (Preserve Office) 903-523-4206 (Special Events/Storage) Annual/Extended Stay - Personal Sites available. A year with no time out. *Limited spaces available.* Save on gas, setup, pulling/towing. Please call Nic at the preserve office for information. Don’t delay - sites are rapidly filling up!

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage available for $40 per month. Please call Brynda.

LAKE WHITNEY | 254-694-4269 Annual/Extended Stay - Our annual/personal site program allows you to camp up to 210 days a year. There are 4 different price ranges depending on the site type chosen. Call us to find out how to get your personal site at Lake Whitney.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry storage available for $55 per month or $605, plus tax, for the entire year (if paid in full at start of storage). You receive the 13th month free. Don’t wait - limited space.

MEDINA LAKE 830-751-2444 (Preserve Office) 830-751-2406 (Special Events/Storage) Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Site program available. Guarantee your personal site for an entire year with sites starting at $1,733. Call preserve for details.

Special Events - Family reunions, company picnics, rallies – we do them all!

We have two large outdoor areas available for day use. Campsite and limited cabin rentals are also available. Call Cindy at Special Events.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry storage $60 per month or $540 per year, plus tax.

Call Preserve Office or Storage.

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Short-Term Rental - We have 20 fully-furnished rental cabins that sleep 4-6. (18 are lakefront locations). Pet units also available.

HARBOR VIEW | 804-224-8164 Annual/Extended Stay - Annual Sites $1600, plus electric; monthly $375, plus electric.

Short-Term Rental - Book your stay in our Rental Unit; sleeps 6 with a full kitchen and bath. Pets allowed. Call for rates and details.

Special Events - Plan your group event at Harbor View. Air-conditioned Recreational Hall and covered Pavilion available for reservation.

LYNCHBURG | 434-332-6672 Annual/Extended Stay - Come discover why Lynchburg is among the top 25 retirement communities in the nation. Discover all of the history, charm, entertainment and cultural events the area has to offer. We offer annual sites for $1,235.; Value sites for $950. and monthly sites for $325. Call Preserve Office for more information.

Short-Term Rental - Spend a month or two and enjoy all the wonderful activities and attractions of the area. Our monthly rate is $300, plus electric. Call the preserve for more information and start making your plans today.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry storage is available for $40 per month, $10 per week.

Discounts available on six month and yearly contracts.

VIRGINIA LANDING | 757-442-4853 Annual/Extended Stay - Annual sites are available for $1,000, plus electric.

Call preserve for details.

Short-Term Rental - Fully furnished cabins starting at $70 for members. Call preserve for more information.

Special Events - Plan your group event here. Air-conditioned family lodge and kitchen available for rental.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Dry Storage for $35 per month.

WILLIAMSBURG | 757-566-3021 Annual/Extended Stay - Your best year of camping begins at Williamsburg.

Annual on-site program at our beautiful tree-sheltered campground: full hook-up, metered sites begin at $1,750. Vacation Cottage Program offers 28 to 38-foot park models, vinyl or log-sided from $1,499 to $4,999, with a 3-year annual on-site lease. Satellite reception sites still available. Call Kristi at the preserve to find out about this month’s TrailBlazer Reader’s Special.

Short-Term Rental - Spacious cabins that sleep 6-8 are available starting at $56 for members. Fully furnished except for linens. Call Preserve Office for more information.

On-Site/Dry Storage - Secure and easy access storage for $20 per week, $45 per month, or $395 annually, with park membership. Call the preserve for more information.

CIRCLE NO. 116 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

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Tech Topics continued from page 9

Get in the habit of taking a quick glance at the area under your engine compartment each time you fill up or take a break at a rest stop, looking for fluid leaks. It’s also a good idea to check your oil level after driving about a hundred miles after any oil change (remember to check when the engine is cool). Above all, train yourself to check your oil gauge and temperature gauge regularly while driving.

If you decide to change your oil filter yourself, here are a couple of quick tips: before installing the new filter, be sure the O-ring from the previous filter has been completely removed from the engine block. Always use

a new O-Ring with a new filter and lubricate the O-ring lightly with oil before installing the filter. Hand-tighten new oil filters as per the package instructions; never overtighten and don’t use a wrench. And be sure to dispose of the used filter properly (a favorite argument for using a commercial service for oil changes).

Happy Trails ! ■ Paul and Kerri Elders are freelance writers; visit their web site at RVLinker.com. Follow Paul & Kerri on Twitter @ rvlinker.

Terms and Conditions for 2013 Referral Promotion Terms and Conditions: For each Eligible Referral (as defined), you will receive a $25 American Express gift card. In addition, for each Eligible Referral, you will receive one entry in a drawing for the following prizes: (i) Grand Prize is either a trip to Hawaii or a 7 night Caribbean Cruise, valued at $4,000, includes roundtrip coach airfare for two adults from the continental United States to either Hawaii or Florida, and hotel/cruise accommodations for 7 nights; (ii) Second Prize is a trip to either Las Vegas, San Francisco or Orlando, valued at $2,000, that includes roundtrip coach airfare for two adults from the continental United States to either Las Vegas, San Francisco or Orlando and hotel accommodations for 4 nights and (iii) ten (10) Third Prizes waiving payment of the winners’ annual dues for 2014, not to exceed $499 each. The trips do not include taxes, meals, beverages, transfers, gratuities, activities and other personal expenses. The drawing will be held at our corporate offices on January 7, 2014. The winners will be notified by telephone. The odds of winning the drawing depend on the number of entries and are not expected to exceed 1:10,000. For this promotion, an Eligible Referral is a person who (i) purchases a new Zone Park Pass from us between January 1, 2013 and December 14, 2013, and (ii) lists you as the referring member. This offer is only for members in good standing of Thousand Trails and its affiliates. Due to legal restrictions, residents of AZ, FL, NV, NY, PA and TN are not eligible to participate in the drawing and you will not receive an entry in the drawing for purchases made by residents of AZ, NV, PA or TN. We reserve the right to extend, modify, suspend, or terminate this promotion at any time for any reason; however, any rewards earned prior to the suspension or termination of this promotion will be honored.

Employees of Equity LifeStyle Properties, Inc. and its affiliates are not eligible to participate in this promotion. All local, state and federal income taxes are the responsibility of the recipient. Accordingly, we recommend that all participants consult a tax advisor about reporting rewards for tax purposes. We will issue the required 1099 to each participant and to the IRS when the total value of awards you are eligible to receive equal or exceed $600.00 for one year. This advertising is being used for the purpose of soliciting sales of resort campground memberships. This document has been filed with the Department of Licensing, State of Washington, as required by Washington law. Value, quality, or conditions stated and performance on promises are the responsibility of the operator, not the Department. This filing does not mean that the Department has approved the merits or qualifications of any registration, advertising, or any gift, prize, or item of value as part of any promotional plan. This promotion is sponsored by MHC Thousand Trails Limited Partnership, Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60606 62

APRIL 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

I Knew I Was a TrailBlazer continued from page 23

our bike ride later in the afternoon. While taking the bikes off the trailer up walked our best man, Steve. We found out that he was actually camping in the SAME campground only TWO sites away from us! Needless to say we talked about old times for over an hour.

Unfortunately he had to leave and travel back to Southern Cal that morning. Such a small world we live in.

TB: Can you finish this sentence? I knew I was a TrailBlazer when...

MS: We went for a three week adventure to Bryce Canyon National Park, Zion National Park, and Lake Powell. It was so much fun visiting the national parks in the western half of the USA in our trailer.

From funny stories to touching moments, we’re looking to tell the story of our members - when they started and when they realized they were a true “TrailBlazer.”

If you’re interested in being interviewed, send us a note at TBeditor@equitylifestyle.com. ■

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To Advertise in Marketplace Or To Place a Classified Ad email TBads@equitylifestyle.com Deadline for June 2013 Issue is April 5, 2013 APRIL 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

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Find The Evergreen Tree An evergreen tree is hidden somewhere in this issue. Drop us a postcard telling us where you found it, and if your card is drawn you’ll win a $25 American Express Gift Card!

Rick & Joanne Marcus

CIRCLE NO. 106 ON FAST FACTS CARD PAGE 50

from Huntington Beach, CA found the evergreen tree on page 44 of the Jan/Feb issue. Did you find the tree in this issue? Send your entry (postcards only) to TrailBlazer Evergreen Tree, Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60606.

Postmark deadline is April 30, and remember — the tree could be a different color and size.

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Fast Facts entries will be entered in our Monthly Drawing to

win a $25 American Express Gift Card!

This month’s Fast Facts winner is

Robert & Bea Wolfgang of Davenport, FL

Answers - Crossword puzzle can be found on page 50

Answers - Sudoku puzzle can be found on page 50

Continued from page 38

In addition, in 2012, the couple and their five children hosted the inaugural Nicholas Sparks Celebrity Family Weekend and Golf Tournament in New Bern. With a range of celebrities from the worlds of sports, music, movies, and television, it’s a weekend to raise awareness and funds for the Foundation—raising more than $500,000 in its first year.

The following questions and answers about North Carolina, writing, and more were culled from Sparks’s website (www.nicholassparks.com), which provides great insight into his books and resulting movies.

Why are all of your novels set in North Carolina?

Because I live in North Carolina and am familiar with the area, because few other novelists write about the area, and because I want to create a sense of familiarity when readers buy each novel.

How many copies have your novels sold?

Worldwide, my books have sold an estimated 80 million copies to date.

Is it true that all of your novels are based on your own life?

My novels aren’t so much based on my life as they are inspired by events in my own life. But even that degree of similarity doesn’t apply to all of my books. For instance, Nights in Rodanthe, was entirely fictional.

How long does it take you to write a novel?

It can take as long as three months to conceive of a story, and during those periods, I simultaneously work on projects for television or film, outline possible ideas both mentally and on paper, go on book and film tours, work with foreign and domestic publishers, and handle the paperwork associated with being an author. Once I finalize a story concept and begin writing, my work schedule can vary depending on where I am in a particular novel, since some sections are easier to write than others. I generally work five or six days a week. My goal is to complete 2,000 words each day, and that can take anywhere from three to eight hours, usually averaging five hours. Generally, I start around 9 a.m. and try to finish by 2 p.m. I have, however, written at all hours of the day and night. I generally work at home, although I’ve also been known to write while touring. Sometimes I need quiet, other times it doesn’t matter. Sometimes I listen to music, other times not.

Sometimes I write with the television on (I like watching DVDs of old television shows), but other times I don’t. In the end, it usually takes four or five months to complete a novel, not counting editing, which adds an additional month or so.

What do you want your readers to take away from your novels?

Generally speaking, I set out to write an easy-to-read,

entertaining, original love story with a poignant ending, one that generates genuine emotion. That’s what I’d like my readers to take away. In terms of style, I attempt to write with efficiency, conciseness, and originality in uncluttered, vigorous prose.

What is the first step you take in writing a new novel?

The first step is to come up with a general theme, one that influences the style in which it’s written, the proper narrative voice, the appropriate characters and settings, and the length of the novel.

Do you write longhand or work on a computer?

I write on a computer.

Is it true you wrote two novels before The Notebook was published, and if so, will you ever publish them?

Yes, it’s true, but no, they will never be seen. I regard the work on those novels as an apprenticeship of sorts, one that showed me that I not only enjoyed writing stories, but that I had the ability to finish a novel once I’d started.

However, I don’t feel they are well-written enough to be published.

Why do you write books?

I enjoy, and have always enjoyed, reading, and my ability to write and interest in a writing career grew out of that.

While I generally avoid clichés, the following is apt: I don’t live to write, I write to live.

What do you read?

I usually read about 125 books a year, and I have been a voracious reader since I was young. I read commercial fiction, selected modern literary fiction, assorted Penguin Classics, history and biography.

Who are your favorite authors?

Due to the volume of books I read, it’s impossible to choose a favorite. I have said publicly, however, that the only modern contemporary writer of fiction that I feel certain will be read 100 years from now is Stephen King, and I am a great admirer of Mr. King’s work.

Which of your novels have been adapted for film?

The Notebook, Message in a Bottle, A Walk to Remember, Nights in Rodanthe, Dear John, The Last Song, The Lucky One, and Safe Haven.

Do you get a chance to meet the stars of your movies?

Yes. I usually visit the set of each film a couple of times and meet everyone involved.

What are your hobbies?

In addition to writing, reading, and spending time with my five children, I run 30 miles a week, lift weights four times per week, and practice Tae Kwon Do. As a black belt, I have competed at both the regional and national levels. n APRIL 2013 | TRAILBLAZER

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S

pring arrives in Washington’s Skagit Valley in the most beautiful way imaginable – hundreds of acres bursting with millions of tulips as they bloom with color welcoming the new season. And while the tulips bloom according to their own schedule, a visit to this area in April promises brilliant color wherever you look.

The Annual Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is a celebration of this event and runs throughout April.

This is a destination each spring for thousands of travelers. In addition to the driving tour of the tulip fields, visitors can attend many other scheduled events including art shows, salmon BBQs, wine tastings, quilt shows as well as participate in the Tulip Run or Tulip Pedal.

Bloom where you’re planted and choose from several of our preserves that are less than an hour from this magnificent display by Mother Nature. Nearby choices include Birch Bay, Grandy Creek, La Conner, Mt. Vernon and Thunderbird. Visit ThousandTrails.com to see more about these locations and to make reservations.

For more information on the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival visit www.tulipfestival.org or visit the festival’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/SkagitValleyTulipFestival.

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